The cricketing world turns its attention to Colombo as Sri Lanka and England prepare for a high-stakes showdown in the third and final One-Day International. With the series tantalizingly poised at 1-1, this match at the iconic R Premadasa Stadium on Tuesday, January 27, 2026, is set to be a thrilling decider.
Series Context and Stakes
The hosts, Sri Lanka, drew first blood with a hard-fought 19-run victory in the opening encounter. However, England showcased their resilience, bouncing back emphatically with a convincing five-wicket win in the second ODI to level the series. This final match promises intense competition as both teams vie for series supremacy.
This ODI series serves as crucial preparation for the upcoming T20 World Cup 2026, which will be jointly hosted by India and Sri Lanka. Following these ODIs, the teams will engage in a three-match T20I series, further fine-tuning their strategies and combinations for the global tournament.
SL vs ENG 3rd ODI: Match Details and Live Streaming Information
When and Where is the Match?
The Sri Lanka vs England 3rd ODI will be played at the R Premadasa Stadium in Colombo on Tuesday, January 27, 2026. The match is scheduled to commence at 2:30 PM Indian Standard Time (IST). The all-important toss will take place half an hour earlier, at 2:00 PM IST, setting the stage for the contest.
How to Watch Live in India?
For cricket enthusiasts in India eager to catch every moment of this series decider, comprehensive viewing options are available:
- Live Telecast on TV: The match will be broadcast live on the Sony Sports Network. Tune in to your preferred Sony Sports channel for full coverage, expert analysis, and commentary.
- Live Streaming Online: The match will be available for live streaming on the FanCode App and its official website. This platform offers a seamless digital viewing experience for fans on the go.
Predicted Playing XIs and Squad Overview
England's Likely Lineup
England, led by the dynamic Harry Brook, is expected to field a balanced side blending experience and youth. The predicted playing XI includes:
- Zak Crawley
- Ben Duckett
- Joe Root
- Jacob Bethell
- Harry Brook (Captain)
- Jos Buttler (Wicket-keeper)
- Will Jacks
- Sam Curran
- Jamie Overton
- Liam Dawson
- Adil Rashid
Sri Lanka's Probable Team
Under the leadership of Charith Asalanka, Sri Lanka will look to leverage home conditions. Their anticipated playing XI features:
- Pathum Nissanka
- Kamil Mishara
- Kusal Mendis (Wicket-keeper)
- Dhananjaya de Silva
- Charith Asalanka (Captain)
- Janith Liyanage
- Pavan Rathnayake
- Dunith Wellalage
- Pramod Madushan
- Jeffrey Vandersay
- Asitha Fernando
Full Squads for the Series
England Squad: Zak Crawley, Ben Duckett, Joe Root, Jacob Bethell, Harry Brook (c), Jos Buttler (wk), Will Jacks, Sam Curran, Jamie Overton, Liam Dawson, Adil Rashid, Luke Wood, Brydon Carse, Tom Banton, Rehan Ahmed.
Sri Lanka Squad: Pathum Nissanka, Kamil Mishara, Kusal Mendis (wk), Dhananjaya de Silva, Charith Asalanka (c), Kamindu Mendis, Janith Liyanage, Wanindu Hasaranga, Maheesh Theekshana, Eshan Malinga, Asitha Fernando, Jeffrey Vandersay, Pramod Madushan, Dunith Wellalage, Pavan Rathnayake, Milan Priyanath Rathnayake, Sadeera Samarawickrama.
As the cricketing drama unfolds in Colombo, fans across India can gear up for an afternoon of exhilarating cricket. With the series on the line, both Sri Lanka and England will leave no stone unturned in their quest for victory, making this a must-watch encounter for every cricket aficionado.
