England host Sri Lanka in a quick-fire T20I series that forms part of both teams World Cup preparations.
Sri Lanka will be trying to nail down their best playing combinations while England look set to test their depth.
England vs Sri Lanka | Wednesday 23 June | Sophia Gardens, Cardiff | 19:30
To Win Match
England 3/10
Tie 25/1
SRi Lanka 51/20
England
With Jofra Archer already on ice long-term, Olly Stone’s injury has come at a bad time for England, but the injury has opened the door for George Garton to join the squad.
England have enough of their stars on hand to still be considered strong favourites for not just the opening match but the series.
England captain Eoin Morgan could surpass the likes of Shoaib Malik, Aaron Finch, and Mohammad Hafeez in terms of T20I runs and move up to fourth on the all-time run-getters if he can rack up 77 runs.
Chris Jordan can also extend his record as England’s leading T20I wicket-taker.
Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka coach Mickey Arthur finds himself needing to show some improvement in a squad that also currently have a tense relationship with the SLC top brass.
The islanders come into the series ranked a lowly eighth in the ICC Rankings while their hosts top that list.
Niroshan Dickwella still hasn’t fulfilled his potential in T20 cricket despite plenty of promise and enterprise but he remains a dangerous batsman who can turn any match.
Wanindu Hasaranga is Sri Lanka’s great hope of producing another wicket-taking wrist-spinner and seems to be a player who can star even outside of Asia.
Verdict: England 3/10
The hosts should have the firepower to take this one.
