As England gears up to take on Sri Lanka in a three-match Test series, cricket fans are eagerly anticipating some thrilling action on the field. The matches are set to take place from August 21 to September 10, with every game being broadcast live on Sky Sports. Additionally, a live rolling blog on skysports.com and the Sky Sports app will provide viewers with score updates, video highlights, and expert analysis throughout the series.
The first Test will kick off at Emirates Old Trafford in Manchester on August 21, followed by the second Test at Lord’s in London from August 29 to September 2, and the final Test at The Kia Oval in London from September 6 to 10. All matches are scheduled to start at 11 am.
However, England will be without their regular captain, Ben Stokes, who sustained a hamstring injury while playing in The Hundred for Northern Superchargers. In his absence, Ollie Pope will lead the team for the first time, with Harry Brook serving as his deputy. The hosts will also miss opener Zak Crawley due to a fractured finger, prompting Dan Lawrence to open alongside Ben Duckett.
While there was speculation about uncapped Essex batter Jordan Cox making his debut, England has decided to strengthen their bowling attack by recalling Durham seamer Matthew Potts. Wicketkeeper Jamie Smith will move up to No. 6 in the batting order, with Chris Woakes promoted to No. 7. The England XI for the first Test against Sri Lanka includes Dan Lawrence, Ben Duckett, Ollie Pope, Joe Root, Harry Brook, Jamie Smith, Chris Woakes, Gus Atkinson, Matthew Potts, Mark Wood, and Shoaib Bashir.
The absence of Ben Stokes has led to Ollie Pope taking on the captaincy role for the series. Former England captain Nasser Hussain believes that Pope will continue with the same game plan and messaging as Stokes, despite not being as naturally inclined towards captaincy. Eoin Morgan, another former England captain, expects Pope to make bold decisions and instill trust in the younger players, much like Stokes did during his tenure.
In terms of recent performances, England comes into the series on the back of a 3-0 sweep against West Indies in July, with fast bowler Gus Atkinson impressing with 22 wickets across the three games. On the other hand, Sri Lanka secured a historic ODI series victory over India, their first in the format since 1997. The Sri Lankan Test squad includes six players from the ODI squad, with high hopes of replicating their recent success in the longer format.
Sri Lanka last beat England in a Test series in 2014, and they will be looking to repeat that feat this time around. With three Test series wins in their last four outings, Sri Lanka will be a tough challenge for the England team. The series promises to be an exciting contest between two competitive sides, and fans can catch all the action live on Sky Sports Cricket. The first Test at Emirates Old Trafford is set to begin on Wednesday, so make sure to tune in for what is sure to be a thrilling encounter.