Sri Lanka's Predicted XI vs England Cricket World Cup 2023: Will Sri Lanka Make Any Changes?

The tournament so far has not been very memorable for former champions Sri Lanka, but they are preparing for another test of their will against England at the M. Chinnaswamy stadium in Bengaluru for match no. 25 of the ICC Cricket World Cup 2023 on Thursday, October 26. After beginning the tournament with three defeats on the trot, including a forgettable bowling performance against Pakistan where they failed to defend a 346-run target, Sri Lanka opened their account in the ongoing edition in their last game against the Netherlands.

Dilshan Madushanka and Kasun Rajitha picked up four wickets each, as the Netherlands were bowled out for 262 runs in 49.4 overs. Sadeera Samarawickrama led the run chase with a terrific 91 off 107 balls and was well supported by Pathum Nissanka and Charith Asalanka, as the Islanders won by five wickets.

Injury concerns have been looming large on them since the beginning of the tournament. Skipper Dasun Shanaka was first to head out of the tournament, handing over captaincy responsibilities to Kusal Mendis. Now, their fast bowler Matheesha Pathirana has returned home due to an injury.

Sri Lanka have been granted permission to bring Angelo Mathews as a replacement, but the veteran all-rounder has made only three appearances in the last two-and-a-half years.

Openers: Pathum Nissanka, Kusal Perera

Pathum Nissanka and Kusal Perera are an aggressive opening pair who are capable of taking the game away from the opposition. Pathum Nissanka has been consistent throughout the tournament, scoring 166 runs in four innings so far, which includes three half-centuries.

The hard-hitting Kusal Perera had one big knock of 78 against Australia, but beyond that, he has struggled to make it past the powerplay