Sri Lanka opened the three-match ODI series with a 19-run victory over England, gaining early momentum and putting themselves firmly in command of the series. The hosts produced a strong all-round display, posting a competitive total and backing it up with controlled bowling to defend the score.
The focus now shifts to the second ODI at the same venue, the R. Premadasa Stadium in Colombo, on Saturday, January 24. Sri Lanka have a clear chance to seal the series, while England face a must-win situation to stay alive. With pressure mounting, the contest promises another intense battle.
This article will cover the SL vs ENG second ODI match prediction, toss insights, expected scores, key batter and bowler picks, and analysis on which team is likely to win the clash during England’s tour of Sri Lanka 2026.
SL vs ENG Match Prediction: Who Will Win 2nd ODI?
Match Details:
Match: Sri Lanka vs England, 2nd ODI
Date: January 24, 2026
Time: 2:30 PM IST
Venue: R. Premadasa Stadium, Colombo
Live Streaming: SonyLIV, FanCode
Live Broadcast: Sony Sports Network
SL vs ENG Match Prediction, Head-to-Head Record
Sri Lanka and England are evenly matched in ODI head-to-head contests, with both sides winning 38 of the 80 matches played so far. One game ended in a tie, while three produced no result. Sri Lanka hold the advantage at home, winning 17 of the 27 ODIs played in the country.
England, however, remain a dangerous side despite the early setback. While Sri Lanka’s strong home record and recent momentum give them an edge, England have the experience and quality to level the series if they respond well in the second ODI.
Pitch Report & Conditions
The pitch at the R. Premadasa Stadium is expected to start well for batting before slowing down as the match progresses. Batters can score freely early, but spinners are likely to play a major role during the middle overs as the surface offers more grip and turn.
SL vs ENG Weather Report
Weather conditions in Colombo are forecast to remain favourable on match day. Skies are expected to be mostly sunny, with temperatures around 32°C. No rain is predicted, which should allow a full game without interruptions.
SL vs ENG Match Prediction, Probable XIs
England Playing XI: Zak Crawley, Ben Duckett, Joe Root, Jacob Bethell, Harry Brook(c), Jos Buttler (wk), Rehan Ahmed, Sam Curran, Jamie Overton, Liam Dawson, Adil Rashid
Sri Lanka Playing XI: Pathum Nissanka, Kamil Mishara, Kusal Mendis (wk), Dhananjaya de Silva, Charith Asalanka (c), Janith Liyanage,Wanindu Hasaranga, Dunith Wellalage, Pramod Madushan, Maheesh Theekshana, Asitha Fernando
Toss Impact
The toss could play a big role at the R. Premadasa Stadium. In the first ODI, Sri Lanka defended 271 as the pitch slowed down in the second innings and helped the spinners. Dew can appear under lights in Colombo, but spin still remains effective later in the game.
Form and Fitness
Sri Lanka rested Wanindu Hasaranga and Maheesh Theekshana in the first match. Jeffrey Vandersay and Dunith Wellalage stepped up and took key wickets to break England’s chase. Sri Lanka have no new injury concerns after the opener.
England are monitoring Will Jacks, who missed the first ODI due to illness. Rehan Ahmed replace in and showed promise, but England missed Jacks’ hitting power. The middle order remains a concern after collapsing from 129/2 to 252 all out.
Score Prediction
Based on the first match, a first-innings score between 260 and 280 should be competitive. The pitch offers good value early, but scoring usually slows down during the middle overs from 11 to 40.
SL vs ENG: Players to Perform Prediction
Sri Lanka: Pathum Nissanka, Kusal Mendis, Charith Asalanka, Wanindu Hasaranga, Maheesh Theekshana
England: Ben Duckett, Joe Root, Harry Brook, Sam Curran, Adil Rashid
SL vs ENG: Best Batsman Prediction
Who will score the most runs for Sri Lanka in the match?
Pathum Nissanka or Kusal Mendis
Who will score the most runs for England in the match?
Joe Root or Ben Duckett
SL vs ENG: Best Bowler Prediction
Who will pick the most wickets for Sri Lanka in the match?
Wanindu Hasaranga or Maheesh Theekshana
Who will pick the most wickets for England in the match?
Adil Rashid or Sam Curran
Conclusion: Who Will Win the SL vs ENG 2nd ODI?
Sri Lanka go into the match as favourites, but if England execute their plans well, they have the potential to push Sri Lanka and keep the contest close.
