England have already sealed the T20I series in Sri Lanka with two hard-fought wins and will now look to complete a 3–0 whitewash in the final game. The visitors have shown great adaptability to Sri Lankan conditions, which makes this series a perfect build-up for the ICC T20 World Cup 2026.
Sri Lanka, however, will be desperate to avoid a clean sweep. In both matches so far, they found themselves in strong positions before losing momentum at crucial stages. The third and final T20I will be played at Pallekele, where spin is expected to dominate once again.
SL vs ENG Match Details
| Match Info | Details |
|---|---|
| Tournament | Sri Lanka vs England T20I Series 2026 |
| Match | Sri Lanka vs England, 3rd T20I |
| Date | Tuesday, 3 February 2026 |
| Time | 7:00 PM IST |
| Venue | Pallekele International Cricket Stadium |
Match Preview
Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka have played well in patches but failed to close out games. Their bowling has been disciplined, especially in the powerplay, but the lack of batting firepower has hurt them. Too many anchor-type batters have made it difficult to accelerate when needed.
Key Concerns
- Losing momentum after strong starts
- Lack of big hitters in the middle order
- Pressure situations not handled well
England
England have looked far more settled. Even in tough conditions, their batters have found ways to score runs. Players like Phil Salt, Jos Buttler, and Harry Brook provide explosive options at the top and middle.
Key Strengths
- Multiple power hitters
- Better finishing ability
- Strong spin attack for these conditions
Head-to-Head Record (T20Is)
| Teams | Matches Won |
|---|---|
| Sri Lanka | 4 |
| England | 12 |
| No Result | 0 |
Recent Form (Last 5 Matches)
| Team | Last 5 Matches |
|---|---|
| Sri Lanka | L, NR, W, L, L |
| England | NR, W, NR, W, W |
Weather & Pitch Report – Pallekele
Weather
- Temperature: 22–24°C
- Humidity: 70–75%
- Rain: 10% chance
Pitch
- Slower surface due to recent rain
- Spinners get grip and turn
- Batting becomes tougher as match progresses
- Defending totals is possible
Pallekele Stadium – T20I Stats
| Record | Stats |
|---|---|
| Total Matches | 29 |
| Bat First Wins | 14 |
| Bat Second Wins | 12 |
| No Result | 3 |
| Average 1st Innings Score | 166 |
| Highest Score | 263/3 |
| Lowest Score | 88/10 |
Predicted Playing XI
Sri Lanka
- Kusal Mendis (wk)
- Pathum Nissanka
- Kamil Mishara
- Charith Asalanka
- Pavan Rathnayake
- Dasun Shanaka (c)
- Janith Liyanage
- Wanindu Hasaranga
- Dunith Wellalage
- Matheesha Pathirana
- Eshan Malinga
England
- Jos Buttler (wk)
- Phil Salt
- Jacob Bethell
- Tom Banton
- Harry Brook (c)
- Sam Curran
- Will Jacks
- Liam Dawson
- Jamie Overton
- Adil Rashid
- Jofra Archer
Dream11 Fantasy Tips
Small League (Safe Picks)
Captain / Vice-Captain Options
- Tom Banton
- Dasun Shanaka
- Pavan Rathnayake
- Adil Rashid
Grand League (Risky Picks)
Captain / Vice-Captain Options
- Kusal Mendis
- Jos Buttler
- Wanindu Hasaranga
- Phil Salt
SL vs ENG Dream11 Team Prediction – Who Will Win?
Sri Lanka have competed well but have repeatedly failed to finish games. Their batting lacks the explosive element required in pressure moments. England, on the other hand, have several batters who can change the game within a few overs.
Unless Sri Lanka restrict England to a low first-innings total, it will be difficult for them to defend or chase. Based on current form, balance, and confidence, England remain clear favourites.
Predicted Winner: England
Injury Update
| Team | Status |
|---|---|
| England | No injury updates |
| Sri Lanka | No injury updates |
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