Sri Lanka Predicted Playing XI vs England- 2nd ODI, SL tour of ENG 2026

Sri Lanka Predicted Playing XI vs England. [Source - AFP]Sri Lanka will take on England in the second ODI of the three-match series at Headingley in Leeds on Thursday, September 24. England currently lead the series 1-0 after securing an 89-run victory in the opening ODI at Durham.Sri Lanka’s bowlers had a strong outing in the first ODI, restricting England to 265 in their 50 overs. Debutant Sachindu Colombage was the standout performer, making an immediate impact on his international debut with three wickets for 44 runs in his 10 overs.However, Sri Lanka’s batters could not match that effort and endured an off day while chasing 266. They failed to build enough partnerships and were eventually bowled out, leaving them 0-1 down. They now need a win to level the series and force a decider.As Sri Lanka look to bounce back against England, here is the Sri Lanka predicted playing XI vs England for the 2nd ODI of the three-match series at Headingley in Leeds on Thursday, September 24.Openers and Top Order: Pathum Nissanka, Kamindu Mendis, Kusal MendisPathum Nissanka scored 27 off 37 balls in the first ODI and will be expected to retain his place at the top of the order. The right-hander remains an important part of the Sri Lanka predicted playing XI vs England, with the team hoping for a stronger start at Headingley.Kamindu Mendis is still searching for his breakthrough in ODI cricket and is likely to get another opportunity to open alongside Nissanka. He scored 14 off 19 in the first ODI, but the management is expected to continue backing him.Kusal Mendis scored 42 off 60 in the first ODI while watching Sri Lanka’s batting order collapse around him. The captain could not take his side over the line, but his experience make him a crucial name at number 3.Middle Order and All-rounders: Pavan Rathnayake, Charith Asalanka, Janith Liyanage, Dunith WellalagePavan Rathnayake is expected to continue at No. 4 in the Sri Lanka predicted playing XI vs England after scoring 13 in the first ODI. He remains one of Sri Lanka’s key ODI batters this year, having scored 199 runs in 2026, including a century.Charith Asalanka is having a tough year in ODIs, with the left-hander scoring 121 runs at an average of 24.20 in 2026. He was dismissed for just one in the first ODI and will be eager to find some runs and regain his form.Also Read: England Predicted Playing XI vs Sri Lanka- 2nd ODI, SL tour of ENG 2026Janith Liyanage also had a disappointing outing in the series opener, scoring only four runs. However, he could get one more opportunity in the Sri Lanka predicted playing XI vs England, although Dasun Shanaka is waiting in the wings.Dunith Wellalage provides valuable balance and depth to Sri Lanka’s middle-order with his all-round ability. He scored a useful 45 off 36 balls in the first ODI and also contributed with the ball by picking up one wicket.Bowlers: Sachindu Colombage, Dushmantha Chameera, Asitha Fernando, Dilshan MadushankaSachindu Colombage was the star of Sri Lanka’s bowling attack on his ODI debut, taking three wickets, including the prized dismissal of Joe Root. With Wanindu Hasaranga unavailable, Colombage is expected to retain his place in the Sri Lanka predicted playing XI vs England.Dushmantha Chameera has been Sri Lanka’s best bowler in ODIs this year, taking five wickets at an average of 25.60. The experienced pacer will once again lead the pace attack and will be crucial in multiple phases.Asitha Fernando has picked up six wickets for Sri Lanka in ODIs this year and remains their new-ball option. He was their second-best bowler in the first ODI, claiming three wickets, and is expected to continue in the Sri Lanka predicted playing XI vs England.Dilshan Madushanka will provide the left-arm angle with the new ball alongside Asitha Fernando. He picked up one wicket in the series opener and is likely to retain his place as Sri Lanka look to build on their strong bowling performance.Sri Lanka Playing XI Vs England, 2nd ODIPathum Nissanka, Kamindu Mendis, Kusal Mendis (C)(WK), Pavan Rathnayake, Charith Asalanka, Janith Liyanage, Dunith Wellalage, Sachindu Colombage, Dushmantha Chameera, Asitha Fernando, Dilshan Madushanka.Also Read: Asian Games 2026- All Cricket Squads Announced