England have made a confident start to their ICC T20 World Cup 2026 preparations, taking a 2-0 lead in the three-match series with comprehensive victories over the hosts. Meanwhile, Sri Lanka have some key areas to address before the World Cup.

The final showdown will be at Pallekele International Cricket Stadium on Tuesday at 7 PM IST. England are looking for a 3-0 series triumph, while Sri Lanka will rely on a strong performance from their senior players to prevent a whitewash.

SL vs ENG Match details

Pitch Report

The Pallekele pitch has offered plenty for the bowlers, with rain adding to the challenge for batters, as the ball tends to hold up in the wicket. The toss will play a crucial role, with the team bowling first having the advantage.

SL vs ENG head-to-head record

The head-to-head between Sri Lanka and England in T20Is has been largely dominated by England, who have won 12 out of the 16 encounters, while Sri Lanka has secured 4 victories.

SL vs ENG probable top performers

Key batter to watch out for: Tom Banton (ENG)

As the final match of the series approaches, Tom Banton remains a key batter to watch. He has scored 83 runs so far, with a blistering 29 off 15 ball in the first T20I and a composed 54* (33) in the second T20I, which included 4 fours and 3 sixes. With an overall average of 83.00 and a strike rate of 172.91 across two matches, Banton will be looking to finish the series on a high note with another match-winning performance.

Key bowler to watch out for: Adil Rashid (ENG)
Adil Rashid has been a standout performer on the tour so far. After finishing as the leading wicket-taker in the ODI series, he now tops the T20I wickets table with four wickets in two games. His contribution in the middle overs will be crucial to the team’s success.

SL vs ENG 3rd T20I Match Prediction

England are the favourites to win the 3rd T20I against Sri Lanka, given their strong track record in the series and overall dominance in T20Is. However, Sri Lanka will be looking to bounce back and put up a fight, especially if their senior players deliver a complete performance. It’s likely to be a competitive contest, but England are expected to seal the win.

SL vs ENG: Probable XIs

Sri Lanka: Pathum Nissanka, Kusal Mendis (wk), Kusal Perera, Charith Asalanka, Dasun Shanaka (c), Pavan Rathnayake, Janith Liyanage, Matheesha Pathirana, Dunith Wellalage, Wanindu Hasaranga, Eshan Malinga

England: Phil Salt, Jos Buttler (wk), Harry Brook (c), Will Jacks, Tom Banton, Jacob Bethell, Liam Dawson, Sam Curran, Jamie Overton, Adil Rashid, Jofra Archer.

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