England vs Sri Lanka Prediction & Match Preview – 2nd T20I, Cardiff

England and Sri Lanka move to Sophia Gardens in Cardiff for the second T20I of the series on Thursday 17 September.

England are captained by Harry Brook and are expected to include Aneurin Donald, Jos Buttler, Tom Banton, Jordan Cox and Will Jacks in a heavy-hitting top order. Jamie Overton and Liam Dawson add all-round balance, while Josh Tongue, Sonny Baker and Adil Rashid form the bowling attack. Jofra Archer, Gus Atkinson, Saqib Mahmood, James Coles and Ben Duckett are also in the squad.

Sri Lanka, led by Charith Asalanka, are expected to rely on Pathum Nissanka and Kamindu Mendis in the batting, with Wanindu Hasaranga and Dasun Shanaka providing all-round options. Dunith Wellalage, Maheesh Theekshana, Dushmantha Chameera and Eshan Malinga lead the bowling.

Early wickets could have a major effect on the final total, because cloud cover and breeze may help swing and seam at the start of an innings.

Probable playing XI

Pitch report

Sophia Gardens usually offers a balanced T20 surface, with early swing and seam for the quicker bowlers, especially under cloud. Batters get good bounce and carry once they settle. The pitch may slow a little, so cutters and spinners come into play in the middle overs. Around 145–150 is competitive, 160 or more puts the batting side in a strong position and 175 would be very good.

Weather

Mostly cloudy and breezy at about 16°C at the 6:30 pm local start. Rain is possible earlier in the day but it should turn drier by the evening, with gaps in the cloud. The cool air and breeze could help seam bowlers, and overall conditions look suitable for play.

Expected scores

• 1st innings: 175–185
• 2nd innings: 150–175