During the opening Test at Old Trafford, England appeared to be cruising to an easy victory. With few expecting Sri Lanka to pose a significant challenge, the match unfolded as predicted, especially after the visitors conceded a 122-run lead. By the time Sri Lanka managed to surpass England's total, they had already lost four wickets. However, what followed was a remarkable fightback from Sri Lanka with both bat and ball, pushing England to the brink.
Sri Lanka will be hoping to carry the momentum from that spirited finish into the second Test as they seek to level the series. Kamindu Mendis continued to impress, and debutant Milan Rathnayake surprised many with his performance. If experienced players like Dinesh Chandimal, Angelo Mathews, and Dimuth Karunaratne can contribute effectively, Sri Lanka could present a strong challenge. The team will also be relieved to avoid facing Mark Wood, who is sidelined due to injury.
Sri Lanka’s history at Lord’s is another positive factor, as they haven’t lost at this venue in over two decades, with all five matches in that period ending in draws. While they would likely be satisfied with another draw, a win would set up an exciting series decider. England, on the other hand, will aim for a stronger bowling display after struggling to take wickets during Sri Lanka's second innings at Old Trafford. Olly Stone, who has been named as Wood's replacement, has a significant opportunity in this match. A strong performance from Stone, whose last Test was three years ago, could secure his spot for England’s upcoming winter tours.
Match Details:
- When: England vs Sri Lanka, 2nd Test, August 29 - September 2, 11 AM local time
- Where: Lord's, London
- What to Expect: Clear skies are forecast throughout the Test. While Sri Lanka might hope for a drier pitch, the fast bowlers had a productive time at Lord’s last month when England faced the West Indies.
Team News:
England:
The hosts have confirmed their XI ahead of the match. The captain will be keen to score runs after a disappointing performance in Manchester.
Probable XI: Daniel Lawrence, Ben Duckett, Ollie Pope (c), Joe Root, Harry Brook, Jamie Smith (wk), Chris Woakes, Gus Atkinson, Matthew Potts, Olly Stone, Shoaib Bashir
Sri Lanka:
The visitors have also announced their XI, making two changes. Kusal Mendis has been dropped in favour of Pathum Nissanka, who last played a Test in 2022. Lahiru Kumara replaces Vishwa Fernando, who struggled during England's run chase.
Probable XI:
Dimuth Karunaratne, Nishan Madushka, Pathum Nissanka, Angelo Mathews, Dinesh Chandimal (wk), Dhananjaya de Silva (c), Kamindu Mendis, Milan Priyanath Rathnayake, Prabath Jayasuriya, Asitha Fernando, Lahiru Kumara