Sri Lanka will look to script another World Cup upset when they face unbeaten England in Colombo. Despite winning only once in 18 ODIs against England, that lone victory in the 2013 World Cup remains historic. Then-captain Shashikala Siriwardene described it as a turning point for Sri Lankan women’s cricket, a night of joy that changed their journey forever.
Since that famous win, England have dominated with ten consecutive ODI victories over Sri Lanka. Heather Knight’s side are firm favourites after convincing wins against South Africa and Bangladesh. Sri Lanka, meanwhile, have just one point from a washout against Australia, following a loss to India. England’s strategy is clear — dismiss Chamari Athapaththu early. Opener Tammy Beaumont admitted, “Chamari will certainly be the one we’ll be desperate to get out.”
Athapaththu remains Sri Lanka’s key hope, but Inoka Ranaweera’s left-arm spin could also trouble England. She took 4 for 46 against India, including three wickets in one over. If the Khettarama pitch offers turn, Ranaweera could be crucial again. For England, Knight’s consistency stands out — she averages 50 against Sri Lanka and recently scored 79 against Bangladesh.
Conditions may bring both spin and swing, with showers expected in Colombo. Sri Lanka are set to continue with Hasini Perera opening alongside Athapaththu, while England may stick to their winning combination featuring Linsey Smith, Sophie Ecclestone, and Charlie Dean — who have 14 wickets between them so far.
Though England remain favourites, Sri Lanka’s growing depth and belief could make this encounter intriguing. Beaumont summed it up best: Sri Lanka are no longer a one-player team.
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