Rashid Strikes Twice as Sri Lanka Stumble at 97-3 in Colombo ODI
England have fought back brilliantly in the first ODI against Sri Lanka in Colombo, with leg-spinner Adil Rashid once again proving why he’s England’s go-to wicket-taker in limited-overs cricket. Sri Lanka, after winning the toss and choosing to bat, looked to build a solid platform on a pitch that has offered some turn, but they’ve stumbled to 97 for 3 after 21 overs, keeping the contest finely balanced.
Rashid, operating in his familiar role, has already claimed two crucial wickets, including Dhananjaya de Silva, who was trapped lbw in a well-executed delivery that left the batters scrambling. England’s other bowlers, including Rehan Ahmed and Liam Dawson, have kept tight lines and slowed the scoring, preventing Sri Lanka from accelerating despite Kusal Mendis hitting a few boundaries along the way.
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This ODI is not just a standalone fixture. It marks England’s first major white-ball outing since a tough Ashes series defeat in Australia. Coach Brendon McCullum has stuck with the same core lineup, including captain Harry Brook, Joe Root, Zak Crawley and Ben Duckett, signaling confidence in his squad despite recent setbacks. The visitors are relying heavily on Rashid’s experience and so far, he is delivering.
For Sri Lanka, captain Charith Asalanka and Kusal Mendis are at the crease, tasked with steadying the innings and chasing a total that could easily be modest if wickets continue to tumble. Colombo’s R Premadasa Stadium has historically been a fortress for the hosts, with memorable victories against Australia and India in past ODIs. Their familiarity with conditions gives them an edge, but England’s disciplined bowling is testing that advantage early.
The dynamics of this match highlight why early wickets are so critical in limited-overs cricket. Sri Lanka’s early partnership was promising, but with the fall of their third wicket just past 97, pressure has shifted squarely onto the middle order. England will look to maintain control and potentially restrict the total to under 250, giving their batsmen a manageable chase in challenging subcontinental conditions.
This game matters because it sets the tone for a three-match ODI series, crucial preparation ahead of the upcoming T20 World Cup co-hosted by Sri Lanka and India. It also offers England a chance to rebuild confidence and establish momentum in the post-Ashes period.
Keep watching as this contest unfolds. Every over, every wicket and every run could decide the momentum in this series. Stay tuned for the latest updates and live coverage from Colombo, as England and Sri Lanka battle it out in what promises to be a thrilling start to their limited-overs series.
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