England vs Sri Lanka Prediction & Match Preview – 3rd T20I, Old Trafford

England and Sri Lanka play the third and final T20I of the series at Emirates Old Trafford in Manchester on Saturday 19 September.

England, led by Harry Brook, are expected to field Aneurin Donald, Jos Buttler, Tom Banton, Jordan Cox and Will Jacks in the top order, with Jamie Overton and Liam Dawson adding balance. Josh Tongue, Sonny Baker and Adil Rashid are in the bowling line-up, and Ben Duckett, Jofra Archer, Saqib Mahmood, Gus Atkinson and James Coles are also in the squad.

Sri Lanka, captained by Charith Asalanka, have Pathum Nissanka, Kamil Mishara, Lahiru Udara and Kamindu Mendis in the batting, with Dasun Shanaka and Wanindu Hasaranga adding all-round strength. Dunith Wellalage, Maheesh Theekshana, Dushmantha Chameera and Eshan Malinga lead the attack.

The balanced surface should reward good stroke-making once batters settle, but conditions may make the start tricky, and early wickets could have a big effect on the final total.

Probable playing XI

Pitch report

Old Trafford generally gives good pace and consistent bounce, which suits stroke-making once batters are in. Fast bowlers can find early swing and seam, particularly under cloud, and spinners may get help as the game wears on. The surface can slow in the middle overs, bringing bowlers back into the contest. A first-innings score of 160–170 is competitive and 180 or more could give a strong advantage.

Weather

Expect a cool, breezy day, around 18–19°C, with mostly cloudy skies and some sunny intervals. There is a moderate chance of a passing shower around the start, and conditions may improve later. Cloud could help seamers early, and play should go ahead if showers are brief.

Expected scores

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