In a T20 World Cup Super 8s Group 2 match in Pallekele, Sri Lanka won the toss and elected to field first against England. Sri Lanka made two changes to their lineup, bringing back Dushmantha Chameera and Kamindu Mishara, while England fielded an unchanged squad. England's innings faced early difficulties, struggling at 49-3 after 7.5 overs. Notable dismissals included Jacob Bethell for 3 runs, Jos Buttler for 7, and Banton for 6, who was run out. Phil Salt showed some resistance, scoring 30 off 20 balls at one point. Former England bowler Alex Hartley commented that Sri Lanka "have bowled really nicely," executing their plans effectively, while Daniel Norcross suggested the pitch might be "tackier" due to rain, making timing difficult. CricViz analyst Rufus Bullough highlighted England's recurring issue of losing "two or more wickets in the Powerplay in eight of their last ten games," having navigated the Powerplay without losing a wicket only four times in their last 30 T20Is.