England tour of Sri Lanka 2026 reaches an exciting conclusion today as both countries meet in the third and final T20I at the Pallekele International Cricket Stadium. With England already holding a 2-0 lead in the series, today’s match is important. For Harry Brook and his team, it’s a chance to achieve a 3-0 victory and boost their confidence before the upcoming T20 World Cup. Meanwhile, the hosts, led by Dasun Shanaka, aim to restore their pride on home ground and fix middle-order issues that have troubled them throughout the series.
Phil Salt absent: Late change in SL vs ENG 3rd T20I
The notable news before the game was the surprising absence of England’s dynamic opener, Phil Salt. Salt has been in excellent form, so many expected him to play. However, as the captains gathered for the toss, it was announced that he would not be participating.
During the toss, England captain Brook confirmed the concerning news. He mentioned, “We will be batting first. It’s a used pitch, so we hope to take advantage of that with our batting before using it for bowling. Salt experienced a back spasm during the warm-up and will be replaced by Ben Duckett. Luke Wood will come in for Archer.”
The injury came as a surprise, occurring just before the match during the team’s regular warm-up. Back spasms can differ in severity, so the England management decided to be cautious, especially with the demanding World Cup schedule approaching. This adjustment sees Ben Duckett stepping into the opening role, while Luke Wood starts as Jofra Archer is rested to manage his workload.
SL vs ENG: Playing XI of both teams
Sri Lanka: Pathum Nissanka, Kamil Mishara, Kusal Mendis (wk), Pavan Rathnayake, Kamindu Mendis, Dasun Shanaka (c), Janith Liyanage, Dunith Wellalage, Maheesh Theekshana, Dushmantha Chameera, Matheesha Pathirana
England: Ben Duckett, Jos Buttler (w), Jacob Bethell, Tom Banton, Harry Brook (c), Sam Curran, Will Jacks, Jamie Overton, Liam Dawson, Luke Wood, Adil Rashid
Also WATCH: Sam Curran takes hat-trick against Sri Lanka in T20I series opener
