Sri Lanka were well below their best in the series opener. Despite a promising start from Kusal Mendis and Pathum Nissanka, they were bowled out for 133 in 16.2 overs, and their bowlers struggled to control the scoring on a tricky surface. The hosts will want a much stronger showing on Sunday to keep the series alive.
England could hardly have asked for a better beginning. Sam Curran and Adil Rashid took three wickets each to keep Sri Lanka below par, and in the chase Phil Salt made the most of the powerplay to keep the Three Lions firmly in control before rain ended proceedings.
Teams that score 50 or more in the first six overs tend to set the tone here, and the early new-ball movement means the powerplay will matter for both sides.
