Harry Brook-led England are gearing up for their three-match ODI series against Sri Lanka, with the first match scheduled to begin on January 22, 2026, at the R. Premadasa International Stadium in Colombo. This series marks a significant leadership opportunity for Brook, who was confirmed as England’s new white-ball leader following Jos Buttler‘s decision to step down after the Champions Trophy 2025. The hosts, led by Charith Asalanka, are looking to capitalize on their recent home form in what is a crucial series for both sides’ World Cup 2027 qualification hopes.
Sri Lanka’s momentum and resurgence
Sri Lanka will enter this series with a boost in confidence after a competitive period in 50-over cricket. Under Charith Asalanka, the team has focused on long-term planning for the 2027 World Cup, recently securing a hard-fought 1-1 series draw against Pakistan earlier this month. With key bowler in form of Wanindu Hasaranga, the inclusion of experienced all-rounder Dhananjaya de Silva and the recall of Dunith Wellalage signal a deep and versatile squad. Currently ranked 5th in the ICC ODI rankings, the Lankan Lions are eager to maintain their superiority over England at the R. Premadasa Stadium.
England’s transition and Harry Brook’s leadership
England arrives in Colombo looking to arrest a significant decline in their ODI fortunes, having won just four of their 15 matches throughout 2025. Following a disappointing 3-0 series loss to New Zealand in October and a tough Ashes campaign, the team is in a period of transition. Brook, despite recent off-field scrutiny and a new midnight curfew imposed by the ECB, remains the focal point of a squad that blends youth and experience. With stalwarts like Joe Root and Jos Buttler (playing under Brook) alongside rising stars like Jacob Bethell, England are desperate to climb from their current 8th place in the rankings to avoid the 2027 World Cup Qualifiers.
Sri Lanka vs England 2026, ODI series: Complete schedule and venue details
- January 22: First ODI at R. Premadasa Stadium, Colombo – 2:30 pm local / 9:00 am GMT / 2:30 pm IST
- January 24: Second ODI at R. Premadasa Stadium, Colombo – 2:30 pm local / 9:00 am GMT / 2:30 pm IST
- January 27: Third ODI at R. Premadasa Stadium, Colombo – 2:30 pm local / 9:00 am GMT / 2:30 pm IST
Squads:
England: Harry Brook (C), Rehan Ahmed, Tom Banton, Jacob Bethell, Jos Buttler, Brydon Carse, Zak Crawley, Sam Curran, Liam Dawson, Ben Duckett, Will Jacks, Jamie Overton, Adil Rashid, Joe Root, Luke Wood.
Sri Lanka: Charith Asalanka (capt), Pathum Nissanka, Kamil Mishara, Kusal Mendis, Sadeera Samarawickrama, Pavan Rathnayake, Dhananjaya de Silva, Janith Liyanage, Kamindu Mendis, Dunith Wellalage, Wanindu Hasaranga, Jeffrey Vandersay, Maheesh Theekshana, Milan Rathnayake, Asitha Fernando, Pramod Madushan and Eshan Malinga.
Broadcasting & Live Streaming Details:
- India: Sony Sports Network (Sony Sports 1 and Sony Sports 5), Sony Liv, Fancode
- UK: TNT Sports 1, talkSPORT Cricket, Discovery +
- Sri Lanka: Siyatha TV, Sri Lanka Cricket YouTube Channel
- Pakistan: Tapmad
- South Africa: SuperSport (Channel 210)
