Sri Lanka Recall Dushmantha Chameera and Kamil Mishara, Elect to Field Against England cricket team in Pallekele

Sri Lanka won the toss and chose to field first against England in their Super Eight clash at Pallekele, looking to draw inspiration from their commanding chase against Australia at the same venue earlier in the tournament.

Just six days ago, Pathum Nissanka struck an unbeaten century to guide Sri Lanka to a dominant eight-wicket victory over Australia, comfortably chasing down 181 with two overs to spare. Captain Dasun Shanaka said the team’s recent success while chasing influenced his decision at the toss.

“We’ve been chasing well in the past few occasions and are happy to chase again,” Shanaka said. “The boys are very confident playing here.”

England captain Harry Brook, celebrating his 27th birthday, urged his side to show bravery as they aim to gain momentum after a stuttering start to the tournament. The two-time champions named an unchanged XI for the fourth consecutive match, with allrounder Jamie Overton retaining his spot.

Brook confirmed a minor concern over Jacob Bethell, who sustained a cut to his bowling hand during England’s previous match against West Indies. The injury, which required strapping on his finger, is likely to limit Bethell’s bowling involvement.

Sri Lanka made two changes to their side. Chameera returned in place of Pramod Madushan after being rested for the defeat to Zimbabwe, while Mishara replaced Kusal Perera as the hosts continued their search for a stable opening partnership.

The teams are familiar opponents, having recently completed a three-match T20I series in Pallekele earlier this month. England swept that series 3-0, finishing with a disciplined 12-run win in a low-scoring encounter.

Weather conditions could play a role in the contest. Heavy rainfall in the lead-up to the match left parts of the outfield damp, particularly around the edges, although the central square remained protected under covers.

Teams

Sri Lanka: Pathum Nissanka, Kamil Mishara, Kusal Mendis (wk), Pavan Rathnayake, Kamindu Mendis, Dasun Shanaka (capt), Dunith Wellelage, Dushan Hemantha, Maheesh Theekshana, Dilshan Madushanka, Dushmantha Chameera.

England: Phil Salt, Jos Buttler (wk), Jacob Bethell, Tom Banton, Harry Brook (capt), Sam Curran, Will Jacks, Liam Dawson, Jamie Overton, Jofra Archer, Adil Rashid.