The 2nd T20I of the England tour of Sri Lanka 2026 will see Sri Lanka take on England at the Pallekele International Cricket Stadium, Kandy, on Sunday, 1 February 2026. After an exciting start to the series, both teams will be eager to gain momentum as the series progresses. England will look to continue their dominance, while Sri Lanka will aim for a strong comeback on home soil.
Let’s take a look at the SL vs ENG 2nd T20I match prediction, probable XIs, pitch report, and head-to-head record.
SL vs ENG 2nd T20I Match Prediction
Case 1: If Sri Lanka bat first
If Sri Lanka win the toss and decide to bat first, they are expected to score between 140 and 150 runs. The Pallekele pitch usually offers good batting conditions early on, but England’s disciplined bowling attack could restrict the scoring in the middle overs. Chasing this target, England’s deep batting lineup should comfortably get over the line.
Predicted result: England to win by 5 wickets.
Case 2: If England bat first
If England bat first, they are likely to post a total in the range of 160 to 170 runs. With power hitters like Jos Buttler, Philip Salt, and Harry Brook, England have the ability to put Sri Lanka under pressure early. Sri Lanka may find it difficult to chase a big target against England’s varied bowling attack.
Predicted result: England to win by 10–20 runs.
SL vs ENG Predicted Playing XIs
Sri Lanka Predicted XI
Kamil Mishara, Kusal Mendis (WK), Pathum Nissanka, Dhananjaya de Silva, Charith Asalanka, Janith Liyanage, Dasun Shanaka (C), Wanindu Hasaranga, Matheesha Pathirana, Maheesh Theekshana, Eshan Malinga
Sri Lanka will rely heavily on their experienced middle order and spin attack. Players like Hasaranga and Theekshana will be key, especially in the middle overs.
England Predicted XI
Jos Buttler (WK), Philip Salt, Jacob Bethell, Tom Banton, Harry Brook (C), Will Jacks, Jamie Overton, Sam Curran, Liam Dawson, Jofra Archer, Adil Rashid
England’s XI looks well balanced with power hitters, all-rounders, and a strong bowling unit led by Archer and Rashid.
SL vs ENG Head-to-Head Record
In T20 internationals, England have clearly dominated Sri Lanka.
| Matches | Sri Lanka Won | England Won | No Result | Tied |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 14 | 4 | 10 | 0 | 0 |
This record gives England a psychological edge going into the 2nd T20I.
Pitch Report – Pallekele Stadium, Kandy
The pitch at Pallekele International Cricket Stadium generally provides a good surface for batting with even bounce. Batters can play freely once they settle in. Fast bowlers may get some movement with the new ball, while spinners become more effective as the pitch slows down during the middle overs. A score above 160 is usually competitive at this venue.
SL vs ENG Win Prediction
Considering England’s stronger batting depth, recent form, and superior head-to-head record, England are favourites to win the 2nd T20I against Sri Lanka. However, Sri Lanka will hope home conditions help them put up a tougher fight.
