England vs Sri Lanka 3rd ODI Preview & Tips - England to bounce back for 2-1 ODI series win over Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka finally got up and running on their tour of England as they secured a well-deserved 16-run win. 

After seeing Sri Lanka post a score of 321/6, England would have been confident they could chase down their target on a pitch that looked good to bat on. After Tom Banton (73) and Ben Duckett (67) had started well and put on 143 for the first wicket, England looked in good shape. However, Joe Root's loose shot saw him depart for 15 before Harry Brook was caught leg-before for one. Jos Buttler (69) looked to be taking England home, but what seemed like a hamstring injury curtailed his innings as he retired hurt before returning to bat effectively on one leg. 

Will Jacks continued his fine form with the bat as he scored 52, but Sri Lanka were miserly in the final portion of the game as their bowling unit combined to starve England of boundaries. 

The third ODI will almost certainly see Buttler replaced as his injury looks like a series ending one, while Rehan Ahmed's second failure with the bat may see him looking to star in a win or bust appearance. While England were not quite good enough in the second ODI, I predict that they will bounce back and win the final match at the Oval as they secure a series win. 

While England are rarely afraid of chasing 322 in the ODI game, this was a big step forward for Sri Lanka as they put runs on the board. Kusal Mendis' 121 from 100 was a stunning show of resilience and taking a chance when it presents itself. With the ball, the entire bowling line-up impressed, with their exploits in the final 10 overs particularly impressive as they took wickets and starved England of boundaries. 

Now, the focus has to be on turning one win into two. Sri Lanka have failed to secure consecutive ODI wins since they beat Zimbabwe twice in August of 2025. Since then, they have lost six times and won three matches, and I predict they will miss the chance to secure a series win over England as they are beaten at the Oval.