Sri Lanka cricketers Kusal Mendis, Niroshan Dickwella, and Danushka Gunathilaka will be sent home after they were seen as liable for breaking the bio-bubble in England.&nbsp;

Sri Lanka Cricket secretary Mohan De Silva revealed the subtleties in a statement: "Sri Lanka Cricket executive committee has suspended Kusal Mendis, Danushka Gunathilaka &amp; Niroshan Dickwella for breaching the bio- bubble and they will be immediately recalled to Sri Lanka."

The news comes hours after a video of Kusal Mendis and Niroshan Dickwella outside the bio-bubble circulated around the web via online media. The duo was&nbsp;seen meandering in the city of Durham on Sunday night, hours after the team was battered by England in the third ODI.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-icc-t20-world-cup-to-be-shifted-to-uae-confirms-bcci-secretary-jay-shah-394468" hreflang="en">Cricket: ICC T20 World Cup to be shifted to UAE, confirms BCCI secretary Jay Shah</a>

Addressing Cricket NewsWire, the SLC president likewise affirmed the three Sri Lankan players will take the next accessible flight home: “We will bring them back to Sri Lanka in the next available flight, they are suspended pending an inquiry.”&nbsp;

The controversy comes at the absolute worst time for Sri Lanka. They have been vigorously reprimanded for their miserable exhibitions, with numerous former players communicating their concern subsequent to seeing the sorry territory of Sri Lankan cricket.&nbsp;

Fans have additionally turned on players as they dispatched a mission to unfollow Sri Lanka cricketers on social media after they were drubbed 3-0 by England in the T20I series. The issue comes against the deadlock between the players and the SLC, with players declining to sign the agreements offered by the board.

Sri Lanka cricketers Kusal Mendis, Niroshan Dickwella, and Danushka Gunathilaka will be sent home after they were seen as liable for breaking the bio-bubble in England.

Sri Lanka cricketers Kusal Mendis, Niroshan Dickwella, and Danushka Gunathilaka will be sent home after they were seen as liable for breaking the bio-bubble in England. Sri Lanka Cricket secretary Mohan De Silva revealed the subtleties in a statement: "Sri Lanka Cricket executive committee has suspended Kusal Mendis, Danushka Gunathilaka & Niroshan Dickwella for breaching the bio- bubble and they will be immediately recalled to Sri Lanka." The news comes hours after a video of Kusal Mendis and Niroshan Dickwella outside the bio-bubble circulated around the web via online media. The duo was seen meandering in the city of Durham on Sunday night, hours after the team was battered by England in the third ODI. ALSO READ: Cricket: ICC T20 World Cup to be shifted to UAE, confirms BCCI secretary Jay Shah Addressing Cricket NewsWire, the SLC president likewise affirmed the three Sri Lankan players will take the next accessible flight home: “We will bring them back to Sri Lanka in the next available flight, they are suspended pending an inquiry.” The controversy comes at the absolute worst time for Sri Lanka. They have been vigorously reprimanded for their miserable exhibitions, with numerous former players communicating their concern subsequent to seeing the sorry territory of Sri Lankan cricket. Fans have additionally turned on players as they dispatched a mission to unfollow Sri Lanka cricketers on social media after they were drubbed 3-0 by England in the T20I series. The issue comes against the deadlock between the players and the SLC, with players declining to sign the agreements offered by the board.

Cricket: Sri Lanka trio suspended for bio-bubble breach in England

England Men’s Head Coach Chris Silverwood has named a 16-player squad for T20I series against Sri Lanka starting at Sophia Gardens, Cardiff on June 23.

England T20I&nbsp;Squad

<ul>
	<li data-ogsc="rgb(85, 85, 85)">Eoin Morgan (Middlesex) Captain</li>
	<li data-ogsc="rgb(85, 85, 85)">Moeen Ali (Worcestershire)</li>
	<li data-ogsc="rgb(85, 85, 85)">Jonathan Bairstow (Yorkshire)</li>
	<li data-ogsc="rgb(85, 85, 85)">Sam Billings (Kent)</li>
	<li data-ogsc="rgb(85, 85, 85)">Jos Buttler (Lancashire)</li>
	<li data-ogsc="rgb(85, 85, 85)">Sam Curran (Surrey)</li>
	<li data-ogsc="rgb(85, 85, 85)">Tom Curran (Surrey)</li>
	<li data-ogsc="rgb(85, 85, 85)">Liam Dawson (Hampshire)</li>
	<li data-ogsc="rgb(85, 85, 85)">Chris Jordan (Sussex)</li>
	<li data-ogsc="rgb(85, 85, 85)">Liam Livingstone (Lancashire)</li>
	<li data-ogsc="rgb(85, 85, 85)">Dawid Malan (Yorkshire)</li>
	<li data-ogsc="rgb(85, 85, 85)">Adil Rashid (Yorkshire)</li>
	<li data-ogsc="rgb(85, 85, 85)">Jason Roy (Surrey)</li>
	<li data-ogsc="rgb(85, 85, 85)">David Willey (Yorkshire)</li>
	<li data-ogsc="rgb(85, 85, 85)">Chris Woakes (Warwickshire)</li>
	<li data-ogsc="rgb(85, 85, 85)">Mark Wood (Durham)</li>
</ul>

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Warwickshire all-rounder Chris Woakes returns to the squad for the first time since 2015. His last international cap in this format came in November 2015 against Pakistan.

Yorkshire seamer David Willey last played at this level in May 2019 and will be looking to add to his 28 caps.

Hampshire spinner Liam Dawson, who last played a T20I for England in February 2018 in New Zealand, is one of three specialist spinners named.

Durham all-rounder Ben Stokes (fractured finger), Sussex seamer Jofra Archer (right elbow) and Surrey’s Reece Topley (side strain) were not considered for selection due to ongoing injuries.

England Men’s Head Coach, Chris Silverwood, said: “With the T20 World Cup only a few months away, this summer is about perfecting our team and continue to progress on the field. We want to approach every series with an influx of players aiming to win every match and giving us the best preparation as we get closer to the tournament.

“With several high-profile players missing through injury, it allows me to look at some of our experienced players who have not featured at this level for some time. The likes of Chris Woakes and David Willey are very experienced cricketers, and to have them both in the mix is exciting and shows the depth of squad we have available.

“I want our team to play an attacking form of the game. I hope we can continue to excite the England fans with our approach.”

The England T20I squad will report to its Cardiff base on Saturday 19 June.

<h2 data-ogsc="rgb(85, 85, 85)">England vs Sri Lanka, T20I Series: Full Schedule</h2>

1st T20I: England v Sri Lanka, Wednesday 23 June 2021, Sophia Gardens, Cardiff (6.30pm BST)

2nd T20I: England v Sri Lanka, Thursday 24 June 2021, Sophia Gardens, Cardiff (6.30pm BST)

3rd T20I: England v Sri Lanka, Saturday 26 June 2021, Ageas Bowl, Southampton (2.30pm BST)

England Men’s Head Coach Chris Silverwood has named a 16-player squad for T20I series against Sri Lanka starting at Sophia Gardens, Cardiff on June 23. England T20I Squad Eoin Morgan (Middlesex) Captain Moeen Ali (Worcestershire) Jonathan Bairstow (Yorkshire) Sam Billings (Kent) Jos Buttler (Lancashire) Sam Curran (Surrey) Tom Curran (Surrey) Liam Dawson (Hampshire) Chris Jordan (Sussex) Liam Livingstone (Lancashire) Dawid Malan (Yorkshire) Adil Rashid (Yorkshire) Jason Roy (Surrey) David Willey (Yorkshire) Chris Woakes (Warwickshire) Mark Wood (Durham) ALSO READ: Cricket: I'm preparing to play and perform at my best: Wes Agar gears up for his debut Warwickshire all-rounder Chris Woakes returns to the squad for the first time since 2015.

England Men’s Head Coach Chris Silverwood has named a 16-player squad for T20I series against Sri Lanka starting at Sophia Gardens, Cardiff on June 23. England T20I Squad Eoin Morgan (Middlesex) Captain Moeen Ali (Worcestershire) Jonathan Bairstow (Yorkshire) Sam Billings (Kent) Jos Buttler (Lancashire) Sam Curran (Surrey) Tom Curran (Surrey) Liam Dawson (Hampshire) Chris Jordan (Sussex) Liam Livingstone (Lancashire) Dawid Malan (Yorkshire) Adil Rashid (Yorkshire) Jason Roy (Surrey) David Willey (Yorkshire) Chris Woakes (Warwickshire) Mark Wood (Durham) ALSO READ: Cricket: I'm preparing to play and perform at my best: Wes Agar gears up for his debut Warwickshire all-rounder Chris Woakes returns to the squad for the first time since 2015. His last international cap in this format came in November 2015 against Pakistan. Yorkshire seamer David Willey last played at this level in May 2019 and will be looking to add to his 28 caps. Hampshire spinner Liam Dawson, who last played a T20I for England in February 2018 in New Zealand, is one of three specialist spinners named. Durham all-rounder Ben Stokes (fractured finger), Sussex seamer Jofra Archer (right elbow) and Surrey’s Reece Topley (side strain) were not considered for selection due to ongoing injuries. England Men’s Head Coach, Chris Silverwood, said: “With the T20 World Cup only a few months away, this summer is about perfecting our team and continue to progress on the field. We want to approach every series with an influx of players aiming to win every match and giving us the best preparation as we get closer to the tournament. “With several high-profile players missing through injury, it allows me to look at some of our experienced players who have not featured at this level for some time. The likes of Chris Woakes and David Willey are very experienced cricketers, and to have them both in the mix is exciting and shows the depth of squad we have available. “I want our team to play an attacking form of the game. I hope we can continue to excite the England fans with our approach.” The England T20I squad will report to its Cardiff base on Saturday 19 June. England vs Sri Lanka, T20I Series: Full Schedule 1st T20I: England v Sri Lanka, Wednesday 23 June 2021, Sophia Gardens, Cardiff (6.30pm BST) 2nd T20I: England v Sri Lanka, Thursday 24 June 2021, Sophia Gardens, Cardiff (6.30pm BST) 3rd T20I: England v Sri Lanka, Saturday 26 June 2021, Ageas Bowl, Southampton (2.30pm BST)

Cricket: England announce 16-member squad for T20I series versus Sri Lanka

England's Jonny Bairstow Thursday said the addition of South African great Jacques Kallis as batting consultant is a "fantastic addition" to their squad during the Sri Lanka tour.

The 45-year-old Kallis has flown in from South Africa to join England for their two-Test series in Sri Lanka starting January 14.

Bairstow, who is expected to make his Test return after more than a year, is looking forward to working with the class of Kallis, whom he rates as the "best ever all-rounder".

"I think it is a fantastic addition, someone of Jacques' calibre," Bairstow told reporters in a virtual chat from his hotel room in Hambantota.

"The things he has done within the game, in my eyes he is the best all-rounder that there has ever been.

"Someone that batted at the top of the order, caught absolute flies at slip and got so many wickets as well."

Kallis scored 13,289 runs at an average of over 55 in 166 Tests and took 292 wickets with his pace bowling during his 19-year-old international career.

Only India's Sachin Tendulkar and former Australia captain Ricky Ponting have scored more runs than the former Proteas all-rounder in the five-day format.

Bairstow, 31, believes he has a lot to learn from the South African legend who is in isolation in Sri Lanka and should join the squad on Friday.

"There are so many different aspects you could speak to him about.&nbsp;I am really intrigued to spend more time with him and gauge and understand the process," said Bairstow.

"Because to string all three bits together so successfully, over such a long period of time, is a skill in itself.

"It's great to have Jacques around and I am really looking forward to spending some time with him and working with him."

The England team, led by Joe Root, underwent their second training session in Hambantota on Thursday after an early setback when all-rounder Moeen Ali tested positive for Covid 19.

England's Jonny Bairstow Thursday said the addition of South African great Jacques Kallis as batting consultant is a "fantastic addition" to their squad during the Sri Lanka tour.

England's Jonny Bairstow Thursday said the addition of South African great Jacques Kallis as batting consultant is a "fantastic addition" to their squad during the Sri Lanka tour. The 45-year-old Kallis has flown in from South Africa to join England for their two-Test series in Sri Lanka starting January 14. Bairstow, who is expected to make his Test return after more than a year, is looking forward to working with the class of Kallis, whom he rates as the "best ever all-rounder". "I think it is a fantastic addition, someone of Jacques' calibre," Bairstow told reporters in a virtual chat from his hotel room in Hambantota. "The things he has done within the game, in my eyes he is the best all-rounder that there has ever been. "Someone that batted at the top of the order, caught absolute flies at slip and got so many wickets as well." Kallis scored 13,289 runs at an average of over 55 in 166 Tests and took 292 wickets with his pace bowling during his 19-year-old international career. Only India's Sachin Tendulkar and former Australia captain Ricky Ponting have scored more runs than the former Proteas all-rounder in the five-day format. Bairstow, 31, believes he has a lot to learn from the South African legend who is in isolation in Sri Lanka and should join the squad on Friday. "There are so many different aspects you could speak to him about. I am really intrigued to spend more time with him and gauge and understand the process," said Bairstow. "Because to string all three bits together so successfully, over such a long period of time, is a skill in itself. "It's great to have Jacques around and I am really looking forward to spending some time with him and working with him." The England team, led by Joe Root, underwent their second training session in Hambantota on Thursday after an early setback when all-rounder Moeen Ali tested positive for Covid 19.

Bairstow hails Kallis as 'fantastic addition' for England

England all-rounder Moeen Ali on Monday tested positive for COVID-19 following PCR tests on arrival at the airport in Hambantota on Sunday. Ali will now undergo a 10-day self-isolation period, in accordance with the Sri Lanka government's protocol on quarantine.

Besides Moeen Ali testing positive for the coronavirus, all-rounder Chris Woakes has been deemed as a possible close contact and will also observe a period of self-isolation and further testing.

England will again take PCR tests for the second time on Tuesday morning and will take the field for training for the first time on Wednesday.&nbsp;

Sri Lanka and England are scheduled to play a two-match Test series, starting from January 14, under the banner of ICC World Test Championship. The series was slated to be played in 2019 but was rescheduled to due to the COVID-19 pandemic.&nbsp;

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<h2>Statement from ECB on Moeen Ali:</h2>

"Following PCR tests administered on arrival at the airport in Hambantota on Sunday 3rd January, The England and Wales Cricket Board can confirm that Moeen Ali has tested positive for COVID-19.

"Ali will now observe a period of 10-days self-isolation, in accordance with the Sri Lanka Government’s protocol on quarantine.

"Chris Woakes has been deemed as a possible close contact, and he will observe a period of self-isolation and further testing.

"The touring party will be PCR tested for a second time on Tuesday morning. At this stage, the team will train for the first time on Wednesday."

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/after-trolling-pakistan-team-new-zealand-fans-take-hilarious-dig-at-australias-steve-smith-and-joe-burns-354391" hreflang="en">After trolling Pakistan team, New Zealand fans take hilarious dig at Australia's Steve Smith and Joe Burns</a>

<h2>England Men’s Test Squad:</h2>

Joe Root (Yorkshire) (captain), Moeen Ali (Worcestershire), James Anderson (Lancashire), Jonathan Bairstow (Yorkshire), Dom Bess (Yorkshire), Stuart Broad (Nottinghamshire), Jos Buttler (Lancashire), Zak Crawley (Kent), Sam Curran (Surrey), Ben Foakes (Surrey), Dan Lawrence (Essex), Jack Leach (Somerset), Dom Sibley (Warwickshire), Olly Stone (Warwickshire), Chris Woakes (Warwickshire), Mark Wood (Durham).

Reserves:

James Bracey (Gloucestershire), Mason Crane (Hampshire), Saqib Mahmood (Lancashire), Craig Overton (Somerset), Matthew Parkinson (Lancashire), Ollie Robinson (Sussex), Amar Virdi (Surrey). 
&nbsp;

England all-rounder Moeen Ali on Monday tested positive for COVID-19 following PCR tests on arrival at the airport in Hambantota on Sunday. Ali will now undergo a 10-day self-isolation period, in accordance with the Sri Lanka government's protocol on quarantine.

England all-rounder Moeen Ali on Monday tested positive for COVID-19 following PCR tests on arrival at the airport in Hambantota on Sunday. Ali will now undergo a 10-day self-isolation period, in accordance with the Sri Lanka government's protocol on quarantine. Besides Moeen Ali testing positive for the coronavirus, all-rounder Chris Woakes has been deemed as a possible close contact and will also observe a period of self-isolation and further testing. England will again take PCR tests for the second time on Tuesday morning and will take the field for training for the first time on Wednesday. Sri Lanka and England are scheduled to play a two-match Test series, starting from January 14, under the banner of ICC World Test Championship. The series was slated to be played in 2019 but was rescheduled to due to the COVID-19 pandemic. ALSO READ: 'Australians are bad losers' - Former India spinner tears apart hosts over bio-bubble controversy Statement from ECB on Moeen Ali: "Following PCR tests administered on arrival at the airport in Hambantota on Sunday 3rd January, The England and Wales Cricket Board can confirm that Moeen Ali has tested positive for COVID-19. "Ali will now observe a period of 10-days self-isolation, in accordance with the Sri Lanka Government’s protocol on quarantine. "Chris Woakes has been deemed as a possible close contact, and he will observe a period of self-isolation and further testing. "The touring party will be PCR tested for a second time on Tuesday morning. At this stage, the team will train for the first time on Wednesday." ALSO READ: After trolling Pakistan team, New Zealand fans take hilarious dig at Australia's Steve Smith and Joe Burns England Men’s Test Squad: Joe Root (Yorkshire) (captain), Moeen Ali (Worcestershire), James Anderson (Lancashire), Jonathan Bairstow (Yorkshire), Dom Bess (Yorkshire), Stuart Broad (Nottinghamshire), Jos Buttler (Lancashire), Zak Crawley (Kent), Sam Curran (Surrey), Ben Foakes (Surrey), Dan Lawrence (Essex), Jack Leach (Somerset), Dom Sibley (Warwickshire), Olly Stone (Warwickshire), Chris Woakes (Warwickshire), Mark Wood (Durham). Reserves: James Bracey (Gloucestershire), Mason Crane (Hampshire), Saqib Mahmood (Lancashire), Craig Overton (Somerset), Matthew Parkinson (Lancashire), Ollie Robinson (Sussex), Amar Virdi (Surrey).

SL vs ENG: England's Moeen Ali tests positive for COVID-19, Chris Woakes deemed as close contact

England are all set to fly to Sri Lanka as planned on Saturday for their two-match Test series after the touring party tested negative for coronavirus, the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) said on Friday.

The squad will immediately undergo two weeks of quarantine and training in Hambantota and during the period, all the touring party will be tested every two days.&nbsp; 
England will then embark on a journey to Galle for the first Test where they will stay in a bio-secure bubble.

"Following the Covid-19 testing on 30 December, the touring party for the Sri Lanka Test tour have all tested negative. We fly tomorrow (Saturday) evening," said an ECB spokesperson.

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The England tour of Sri Lanka was originally scheduled to be played in March but was postponed due to the coronavirus outbreak.

The first Test is set to go live from January 14-18 with the second Test scheduled from January 22-26 in Galle. There were major fears for the rescheduled dates following the identification of a new and massively contagious strain of the coronavirus.

The recent white-ball series in South Africa was also cut short after a handful of positive cases at the team hotel. However, the ECB and SLC went ahead with the plan for the two-Test series which will be played under the banner of ICC World Test Championship (WTC).

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England are currently fourth in the ICC World Test Championship rankings with 60.8 win percentage while Sri Lanka are seventh with just 26.8 win percentage as the final few series under ICC WTC approaches thick and fast.

England are all set to fly to Sri Lanka as planned on Saturday for their two-match Test series after the touring party tested negative for coronavirus, the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) said on Friday.

England are all set to fly to Sri Lanka as planned on Saturday for their two-match Test series after the touring party tested negative for coronavirus, the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) said on Friday. The squad will immediately undergo two weeks of quarantine and training in Hambantota and during the period, all the touring party will be tested every two days. England will then embark on a journey to Galle for the first Test where they will stay in a bio-secure bubble. "Following the Covid-19 testing on 30 December, the touring party for the Sri Lanka Test tour have all tested negative. We fly tomorrow (Saturday) evening," said an ECB spokesperson. ALSO READ: 'Very disciplined' - Marnus Labuschagne lauds Indian bowlers but wants Aussies to 'grind' for runs The England tour of Sri Lanka was originally scheduled to be played in March but was postponed due to the coronavirus outbreak. The first Test is set to go live from January 14-18 with the second Test scheduled from January 22-26 in Galle. There were major fears for the rescheduled dates following the identification of a new and massively contagious strain of the coronavirus. The recent white-ball series in South Africa was also cut short after a handful of positive cases at the team hotel. However, the ECB and SLC went ahead with the plan for the two-Test series which will be played under the banner of ICC World Test Championship (WTC). ALSO READ: India announce squad for last two Test vs Australia, Rohit Sharma appointed vice-captain England are currently fourth in the ICC World Test Championship rankings with 60.8 win percentage while Sri Lanka are seventh with just 26.8 win percentage as the final few series under ICC WTC approaches thick and fast.

England set to fly for Sri Lanka tour after clearing COVID-19 tests

South African cricket icon Jacques Kallis will be a batting consultant for England's tour of Sri Lanka, the England and Wales Cricket Board announced on Monday.&nbsp;

The 45-year-old is third on the all-time list of Test run-scorers with 13,289 --he also took 292 wickets.

Kallis coached Kolkata Knight Riders in the Indian Premier League and worked with the South Africa team, but was not part of the set-up for England's recent coronavirus-disrupted tour.

"Former South Africa all-rounder Jacques Kallis joins the England setup for the first time as batting coaching consultant," the ECB said in a statement.

England will leave for Sri Lanka on January 2 and play two Tests before going on to tour India.

Both Tests will be played in Galle, starting on 14 January and 22 January.

It will be England's first tour since the visit to South Africa had to be brought to a premature end earlier this month after two members of the touring party tested positive for Covid-19. They later tested negative.&nbsp;

England played all three of the scheduled Twenty 20 internationals but none of the three ODIs, the first of which was postponed after a positive test in the South African entourage.

South African cricket icon Jacques Kallis will be a batting consultant for England's tour of Sri Lanka, the England and Wales Cricket Board announced on Monday. The 45-year-old is third on the all-time list of Test run-scorers with 13,289 --he also took 292 wickets.

South African cricket icon Jacques Kallis will be a batting consultant for England's tour of Sri Lanka, the England and Wales Cricket Board announced on Monday. The 45-year-old is third on the all-time list of Test run-scorers with 13,289 --he also took 292 wickets. Kallis coached Kolkata Knight Riders in the Indian Premier League and worked with the South Africa team, but was not part of the set-up for England's recent coronavirus-disrupted tour. "Former South Africa all-rounder Jacques Kallis joins the England setup for the first time as batting coaching consultant," the ECB said in a statement. England will leave for Sri Lanka on January 2 and play two Tests before going on to tour India. Both Tests will be played in Galle, starting on 14 January and 22 January. It will be England's first tour since the visit to South Africa had to be brought to a premature end earlier this month after two members of the touring party tested positive for Covid-19. They later tested negative. England played all three of the scheduled Twenty 20 internationals but none of the three ODIs, the first of which was postponed after a positive test in the South African entourage.

England hire South African batting legend Kallis for Sri Lanka tour

The schedule for England Test tour of Sri Lanka has been confirmed. England will play two Test matches behind closed doors at the Galle International Cricket Stadium from January 2021.

The England and Wales Cricket Board and Sri Lanka Cricket have agreed to biosecurity and travel plans for what is a rearranged tour following the postponement in March due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

The first Test will commence on 14-18 January with the second Test on 22-26 January.

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The touring party will depart on a chartered flight on 2 January and will be subject to quarantine in Hambantota. During this period, the team will be able to train and prepare for five days from 5-9 January at the Mahinda Rajapaksa International Cricket Stadium.

The two-match Test series forms part of the ICC World Test Championship. This will be England’s penultimate series in the inaugural tournament, and they hope to conclude their campaign against India in February, subject to confirmation of the India tour schedule.

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<h2 data-ogsc="rgb(85, 85, 85)">England tour of Sri Lanka: Complete Schedule</h2>

Saturday 2 January:&nbsp;Touring party departs from London to Hambantota

Tuesday 5-9 January:&nbsp;Training and preparation at Mahinda Rajapaksa International Cricket Stadium, Hambantota

Thursday 14-18 January:&nbsp;1st Test match – Sri Lanka v England, Galle International Cricket Stadium, Galle

Friday 22-26 January:&nbsp;2nd Test match – Sri Lanka v England, Galle International Cricket Stadium, Galle

Wednesday 27 January:&nbsp;Touring party departs Sri Lanka

The schedule for England Test tour of Sri Lanka has been confirmed. England will play two Test matches behind closed doors at the Galle International Cricket Stadium from January 2021.

The schedule for England Test tour of Sri Lanka has been confirmed. England will play two Test matches behind closed doors at the Galle International Cricket Stadium from January 2021. The England and Wales Cricket Board and Sri Lanka Cricket have agreed to biosecurity and travel plans for what is a rearranged tour following the postponement in March due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The first Test will commence on 14-18 January with the second Test on 22-26 January. ALSO READ: Virat Kohli hints at skipping pink-ball warm-up match against Australia A The touring party will depart on a chartered flight on 2 January and will be subject to quarantine in Hambantota. During this period, the team will be able to train and prepare for five days from 5-9 January at the Mahinda Rajapaksa International Cricket Stadium. The two-match Test series forms part of the ICC World Test Championship. This will be England’s penultimate series in the inaugural tournament, and they hope to conclude their campaign against India in February, subject to confirmation of the India tour schedule. ALSO READ: Suresh Raina to return for IPL 2020/21 and Syed Mushtaq Ali England tour of Sri Lanka: Complete Schedule Saturday 2 January: Touring party departs from London to Hambantota Tuesday 5-9 January: Training and preparation at Mahinda Rajapaksa International Cricket Stadium, Hambantota Thursday 14-18 January: 1st Test match – Sri Lanka v England, Galle International Cricket Stadium, Galle Friday 22-26 January: 2nd Test match – Sri Lanka v England, Galle International Cricket Stadium, Galle Wednesday 27 January: Touring party departs Sri Lanka

​England's Test tour of Sri Lanka confirmed; here's complete schedule

England are looking into the possibility of holding a training camp in the sub-continent for their Test squad ahead of planned tours of Sri Lanka and India.

Their red-ball side completed a 2020 home Test programme with a 1-0 win in a three-match series against Pakistan following a rain-marred drawn finale at Southampton on Tuesday.

That was the last of six Tests this season -- all played behind closed doors because of the coronavirus pandemic -- after England's 2-1 win over the West Indies last month.

But as Joe Root's side left their bio-secure bubble, there was no certainty as to when they will be in action again, with Covid-19 having upended the global cricket calendar.

England could be in Sri Lanka in January for a tour that was originally halted in March because of the virus outbreak before travelling to India for a Test series.

"It is nice to know that some form of preparation is being considered ahead of the winter tours if they take place and to give us a really good chance of competing if it is in sub-continent conditions," Root said.

"If not then we just have to make the most of what is available to us."

<h2>- Classy Crawley -</h2>

Whenever they next play Test cricket, England will probably find themselves having to work out who to drop in order to get Ben Stokes back in the side after he missed the final two matches of the Pakistan series to be with his ill father in New Zealand.

Zak Crawley made way for an extra seamer earlier in the season when a quad injury meant star all-rounder Stokes was unfit to bowl.

But having scored 267 -- his maiden Test century -- against Pakistan last week, the 22-year-old batsman is unlikely to be dropped again soon.

"I don't think when someone scores 267 it is going to give you too many headaches," said Root of Crawley.&nbsp;

"He has been left out of the team twice for the balance of the side so to come into the team twice and affect both games shows huge amounts of class, talent, skill, concentration and maturity.&nbsp;

"Hopefully it is a springboard and it is a shame there is no more Test cricket for him this summer because I'm sure he would have wanted to carry on this form."&nbsp;

None of England's Test squad have been considered for the upcoming three-match Twenty 20 series against Pakistan starting Friday, with the red and white-ball groups largely kept separate this season.

But while new-ball bowlers such as James Anderson and Stuart Broad are now Test specialists, World Cup-winning batsman Root remains an all-format player.

He has even expressed an interest in playing in county side Yorkshire's Twenty20 Blast opener on Thursday, a move could yet pave the way for Root's return to the limited overs squad for England's T20 and one-day international series at home to arch-rivals Australia next month.&nbsp;

"That is completely out my hands, I just want to make the most of this summer," said Root.&nbsp;

"It will be lovely to play some T20 cricket, whether that's for Yorkshire or England, I just want to play the most cricket I can from what is available.

"I'm already looking forward to getting back out there and hopefully scoring some runs."

England are looking into the possibility of holding a training camp in the sub-continent for their Test squad ahead of planned tours of Sri Lanka and India. Their red-ball side completed a 2020 home Test programme with a 1-0 win in a three-match series against Pakistan following a rain-marred drawn finale at Southampton on Tuesday.

England are looking into the possibility of holding a training camp in the sub-continent for their Test squad ahead of planned tours of Sri Lanka and India. Their red-ball side completed a 2020 home Test programme with a 1-0 win in a three-match series against Pakistan following a rain-marred drawn finale at Southampton on Tuesday. That was the last of six Tests this season -- all played behind closed doors because of the coronavirus pandemic -- after England's 2-1 win over the West Indies last month. But as Joe Root's side left their bio-secure bubble, there was no certainty as to when they will be in action again, with Covid-19 having upended the global cricket calendar. England could be in Sri Lanka in January for a tour that was originally halted in March because of the virus outbreak before travelling to India for a Test series. "It is nice to know that some form of preparation is being considered ahead of the winter tours if they take place and to give us a really good chance of competing if it is in sub-continent conditions," Root said. "If not then we just have to make the most of what is available to us." - Classy Crawley - Whenever they next play Test cricket, England will probably find themselves having to work out who to drop in order to get Ben Stokes back in the side after he missed the final two matches of the Pakistan series to be with his ill father in New Zealand. Zak Crawley made way for an extra seamer earlier in the season when a quad injury meant star all-rounder Stokes was unfit to bowl. But having scored 267 -- his maiden Test century -- against Pakistan last week, the 22-year-old batsman is unlikely to be dropped again soon. "I don't think when someone scores 267 it is going to give you too many headaches," said Root of Crawley. "He has been left out of the team twice for the balance of the side so to come into the team twice and affect both games shows huge amounts of class, talent, skill, concentration and maturity. "Hopefully it is a springboard and it is a shame there is no more Test cricket for him this summer because I'm sure he would have wanted to carry on this form." None of England's Test squad have been considered for the upcoming three-match Twenty 20 series against Pakistan starting Friday, with the red and white-ball groups largely kept separate this season. But while new-ball bowlers such as James Anderson and Stuart Broad are now Test specialists, World Cup-winning batsman Root remains an all-format player. He has even expressed an interest in playing in county side Yorkshire's Twenty20 Blast opener on Thursday, a move could yet pave the way for Root's return to the limited overs squad for England's T20 and one-day international series at home to arch-rivals Australia next month. "That is completely out my hands, I just want to make the most of this summer," said Root. "It will be lovely to play some T20 cricket, whether that's for Yorkshire or England, I just want to play the most cricket I can from what is available. "I'm already looking forward to getting back out there and hopefully scoring some runs."

England consider sub-continent training camp for Test squad

England's cricket team abruptly pulled out of a tour of Sri Lanka on Friday over the "unprecedented" crisis caused by the coronavirus pandemic.

A practice match in Colombo was halted as the team announced they would be flying back to London, and the first of two Test matches due to start on March 19 has been indefinitely postponed.

"At this time, the physical and mental wellbeing of our players and support teams is paramount," said an England and Wales Cricket Board statement announcing the end of the tour.

"We will now look to bring them home to their families as soon as possible. These are completely unprecedented times, and decisions like this go beyond cricket."

The four-day practice game against a Sri Lankan Board President's XI side was halted near the end of the second day.

England were fielding when captain Joe Root came on to call the players off.

The match attracted few spectators. Only a handful of England fans and a dozen locals were at the grounds to watch the two teams ahead of the first Test in Galle.

Root made it clear this week that players had been told to take extra precautions and not have contact with fans or members of the opposing team.

"It is against our nature as a team, we quite like to socialise and interact with fans and take selfies, autographs and stuff. But it means that we can't do that on this trip," Root told reporters on Wednesday.

There were no handshakes between the teams before the practice game.

Sri Lanka has reported just three coronavirus cases since the start of the crisis which has left more than 4,300 dead around the world.

"We were told that England wants to return because of the threat of the coronavirus," a Sri Lankan cricket official told AFP.

"They decided to stop the practice match immediately and get back home."

The move came as Sri Lanka shut schools across the country and banned travellers from Iran, Italy and South Korea and stopped issuing on-arrival visas to nationals of 48 countries, including Britain.

England's cricket team abruptly pulled out of a tour of Sri Lanka on Friday over the "unprecedented" crisis caused by the coronavirus pandemic. A practice match in Colombo was halted as the team announced they would be flying back to London, and the first of two Test matches due to start on March 19 has been indefinitely postponed.

England's cricket team abruptly pulled out of a tour of Sri Lanka on Friday over the "unprecedented" crisis caused by the coronavirus pandemic. A practice match in Colombo was halted as the team announced they would be flying back to London, and the first of two Test matches due to start on March 19 has been indefinitely postponed. "At this time, the physical and mental wellbeing of our players and support teams is paramount," said an England and Wales Cricket Board statement announcing the end of the tour. "We will now look to bring them home to their families as soon as possible. These are completely unprecedented times, and decisions like this go beyond cricket." The four-day practice game against a Sri Lankan Board President's XI side was halted near the end of the second day. England were fielding when captain Joe Root came on to call the players off. The match attracted few spectators. Only a handful of England fans and a dozen locals were at the grounds to watch the two teams ahead of the first Test in Galle. Root made it clear this week that players had been told to take extra precautions and not have contact with fans or members of the opposing team. "It is against our nature as a team, we quite like to socialise and interact with fans and take selfies, autographs and stuff. But it means that we can't do that on this trip," Root told reporters on Wednesday. There were no handshakes between the teams before the practice game. Sri Lanka has reported just three coronavirus cases since the start of the crisis which has left more than 4,300 dead around the world. "We were told that England wants to return because of the threat of the coronavirus," a Sri Lankan cricket official told AFP. "They decided to stop the practice match immediately and get back home." The move came as Sri Lanka shut schools across the country and banned travellers from Iran, Italy and South Korea and stopped issuing on-arrival visas to nationals of 48 countries, including Britain.

England end Sri Lanka cricket tour amid coronavirus pandemic

England beat Sri Lanka by 42 runs in the third and final Test in Colombo on Monday to complete a 3-0 series sweep.

Chasing an improbable 327 to gain a consolation victory, Sri Lanka were dismissed for 284 at the start of the final session of the fourth day at the Sinhalese Sports Club.

Kusal Mendis (86) and Roshen Silva (65) scored a bulk of the runs for the hosts, who had conceded a 96-run first innings lead and resumed the day on 53-4.

Spin duo of Moeen Ali (4-92) and Jack Leach (4-72) shared eight wickets between them to ensure England became just the third team to win a Test series 3-0 in Sri Lanka.

England beat Sri Lanka by 42 runs in the third and final Test in Colombo on Monday to complete a 3-0 series sweep. Chasing an improbable 327 to gain a consolation victory, Sri Lanka were dismissed for 284 at the start of the final session of the fourth day at the Sinhalese Sports Club.

England beat Sri Lanka by 42 runs in the third and final Test in Colombo on Monday to complete a 3-0 series sweep. Chasing an improbable 327 to gain a consolation victory, Sri Lanka were dismissed for 284 at the start of the final session of the fourth day at the Sinhalese Sports Club. Kusal Mendis (86) and Roshen Silva (65) scored a bulk of the runs for the hosts, who had conceded a 96-run first innings lead and resumed the day on 53-4. Spin duo of Moeen Ali (4-92) and Jack Leach (4-72) shared eight wickets between them to ensure England became just the third team to win a Test series 3-0 in Sri Lanka.

ENG vs SL, 3rd Test: England beat Sri Lanka by 42 runs, win series

Off-spinner Moeen Ali struck twice in three deliveries as England completed a 57-run victory in the second test against Sri Lanka on the final day on Sunday to take an unassailable 2-0 lead in the three-match series.

Left-arm spinner Jack Leach picked up the final wicket of the Sri Lanka innings to complete a maiden five-wicket haul in his third test with the hosts all out for 243.

Sri Lanka, who resumed the final day on 226-7 needing 75 for victory, kept the England spinners at bay for 15 minutes in the morning before Moeen dismissed Niroshan Dickwella, who was caught at slip by Ben Stokes for 35.

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Spinners Jack Leach and Moeen Ali lead England to a series-clinching win over Sri Lanka in the second Test.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SLvENG?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SLvENG</a> REPORT ⬇️<a href="https://t.co/4dpg8wupVP">https://t.co/4dpg8wupVP</a> <a href="https://t.co/DCzLuUf7Hc">pic.twitter.com/DCzLuUf7Hc</a>
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The off-spinner then sent back Sri Lanka's stand-in captain Suranga Lakmal for a duck two deliveries later.

Malinda Pushpakumara spooned a catch straight back to Leach as England completed their first away series win in tests since they won in South Africa at the beginning of 2016.

Off-spinner Moeen Ali struck twice in three deliveries as England completed a 57-run victory in the second test against Sri Lanka on the final day on Sunday to take an unassailable 2-0 lead in the three-match series.

Off-spinner Moeen Ali struck twice in three deliveries as England completed a 57-run victory in the second test against Sri Lanka on the final day on Sunday to take an unassailable 2-0 lead in the three-match series. Left-arm spinner Jack Leach picked up the final wicket of the Sri Lanka innings to complete a maiden five-wicket haul in his third test with the hosts all out for 243. Sri Lanka, who resumed the final day on 226-7 needing 75 for victory, kept the England spinners at bay for 15 minutes in the morning before Moeen dismissed Niroshan Dickwella, who was caught at slip by Ben Stokes for 35. Spinners Jack Leach and Moeen Ali lead England to a series-clinching win over Sri Lanka in the second Test.#SLvENG REPORT ⬇️https://t.co/4dpg8wupVP pic.twitter.com/DCzLuUf7Hc — ICC (@ICC) November 18, 2018 × The off-spinner then sent back Sri Lanka's stand-in captain Suranga Lakmal for a duck two deliveries later. Malinda Pushpakumara spooned a catch straight back to Leach as England completed their first away series win in tests since they won in South Africa at the beginning of 2016.

ENG vs SL, 2nd Test: England beat Sri Lanka by 57 runs to bag series

Opening batsman Dimuth Karunaratne struck an unbeaten half-century to lead Sri Lanka's recovery after three early wickets from England left-arm spinner Jack Leach had left the hosts rattled on the fourth day of the second test on Saturday.

Chasing 301 for a series-levelling win on a turning Pallekele track, Sri Lanka reached 93 for three at lunch after being reduced to 26-3 by Leach's brilliant spell of spin bowling with the new ball.

Karunaratne was 54 not out with experienced former captain Angelo Mathews unbeaten on 28 at the break, the duo having added 67 for their unbroken fourth wicket stand.

England, however, wasted chances to dismiss both batsmen with all-rounder Ben Stokes the guilty fielder and off-spinner Moeen Ali the unfortunate bowler on both occasions.

Karunaratne, who made 63 in the first innings, was on 21 when his edge off Moeen flew past Stokes at slip and the batsman also survived a leg before decision in the final over before the lunch interval.

He was given out lbw off leg-spinner Adil Rashid but overturned the decision on review with replays confirming the ball was missing leg stump.

Stokes dropped a relatively easier chance when he dropped Mathews at slip with the batsman on seven.

Leach had given England the ideal start in their quest for a series-clinching win when he lured Kaushal Silva out of his crease with a flighted delivery to be stumped for four.

Dhananjaya de Silva was out to a smart catch by Keaton Jennings at short leg for one off Leach while Kusal Mendis was also trapped lbw for the same score, with England overturning the umpire's not out decision on review.

England batted for about 20 minutes in the morning before they were all out for 346 in their second innings for a lead of 300.

Wicketkeeper Ben Foakes followed up his debut century during the win in Galle with an unbeaten 65 to boost the touring side's lead after captain Joe Root hit 124 and opener Rory Burns made 59 on Friday.

James Anderson was the final wicket to fall when he was bowled out for 12, becoming off-spinner Dilruwan Perera's third wicket in the innings.

Akila Dananjaya, who was reported for a suspect bowling action after the Galle test but is free to play, notched up career-best figures of 6-115 for the hosts.

Opening batsman Dimuth Karunaratne struck an unbeaten half-century to lead Sri Lanka's recovery after three early wickets from England left-arm spinner Jack Leach had left the hosts rattled on the fourth day of the second test on Saturday.

Opening batsman Dimuth Karunaratne struck an unbeaten half-century to lead Sri Lanka's recovery after three early wickets from England left-arm spinner Jack Leach had left the hosts rattled on the fourth day of the second test on Saturday. Chasing 301 for a series-levelling win on a turning Pallekele track, Sri Lanka reached 93 for three at lunch after being reduced to 26-3 by Leach's brilliant spell of spin bowling with the new ball. Karunaratne was 54 not out with experienced former captain Angelo Mathews unbeaten on 28 at the break, the duo having added 67 for their unbroken fourth wicket stand. England, however, wasted chances to dismiss both batsmen with all-rounder Ben Stokes the guilty fielder and off-spinner Moeen Ali the unfortunate bowler on both occasions. Karunaratne, who made 63 in the first innings, was on 21 when his edge off Moeen flew past Stokes at slip and the batsman also survived a leg before decision in the final over before the lunch interval. He was given out lbw off leg-spinner Adil Rashid but overturned the decision on review with replays confirming the ball was missing leg stump. Stokes dropped a relatively easier chance when he dropped Mathews at slip with the batsman on seven. Leach had given England the ideal start in their quest for a series-clinching win when he lured Kaushal Silva out of his crease with a flighted delivery to be stumped for four. Dhananjaya de Silva was out to a smart catch by Keaton Jennings at short leg for one off Leach while Kusal Mendis was also trapped lbw for the same score, with England overturning the umpire's not out decision on review. England batted for about 20 minutes in the morning before they were all out for 346 in their second innings for a lead of 300. Wicketkeeper Ben Foakes followed up his debut century during the win in Galle with an unbeaten 65 to boost the touring side's lead after captain Joe Root hit 124 and opener Rory Burns made 59 on Friday. James Anderson was the final wicket to fall when he was bowled out for 12, becoming off-spinner Dilruwan Perera's third wicket in the innings. Akila Dananjaya, who was reported for a suspect bowling action after the Galle test but is free to play, notched up career-best figures of 6-115 for the hosts.

Karunaratne leads Sri Lanka recovery after Leach triple-strike

England beat Sri Lanka by 211 runs to take a 1-0 lead in the first Test of three-match series at the Galle International Stadium on Friday.

Sri Lanka chasing a 462-run target, were all out for 250 on day four, with Moeen Ali taking four wickets and Jack Leach three.

England had secured a first innings lead of 139 and on Thursday an unbeaten 146 by Keaton Jennings, his first century since a ton on his 2016 debut, allowed Root to declare at 322 for six.

Fifteen without loss overnight, openers Kaushal Silva and Dimuth Karunaratne withstood the pressure from England's formidable bowling attack for the first hour.

But both fell after attacking shots, with Kaushal leg before trying to sweep Leach for 30 and Karunaratne caught and bowled by Ali for 26 and skipped down the pitch for an attempted heave.

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That's the game! 
 
England win by 211 runs, with Moeen Ali taking four wickets, Jack Leach three, and Ben Stokes snaffling three catches. Rangana Herath's final Test ends with him run out for five.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SLvENG?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SLvENG</a> 1st Test score ⬇️<a href="https://t.co/aBGojY53Jw">https://t.co/aBGojY53Jw</a> <a href="https://t.co/IDeg9ugZ20">pic.twitter.com/IDeg9ugZ20</a>
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Dhananjaya de Silva, after a confident start, was caught at first slip by skipper Joe Root off Ben Stokes in the last over of the morning session for 21.

One ball earlier, de Silva had been given out caught behind flashing at a Stokes delivery wide of the off stump, but he was reprieved on review.

After lunch Kusal Mendis hit Leach for four over his head but attempting a repeat the next ball skied the ball to Ali and departed for 46.&nbsp;

He had earlier appeared confident at the crease, employing the sweep shot especially well against all England’s spinners, while secure in defence.&nbsp;

Home skipper Dinesh Chandimal, suffering from a groin injury that kept him off the pitch all of Thursday, was bowled by Leach for 11.

The final session began badly for the hosts. Niroshan Dikwella fell the first ball after tea, caught adroitly by Stokes one-handed at slip off Ali for 16.&nbsp;

Soon afterwards Angelo Mathews -- dropped on 18 by James Anderson -- went for 53, caught by Jos Buttler at midwicket with Ali again the wicket-taker.

He was followed into the pavillon by Akila Dananjaya for 8 before Herath was run out for five.&nbsp;

England's varied attack, with three quicks and three spinners, applied substantial pressure, with the slightly expensive Adil Rashid the only disappointment so far.&nbsp;

England beat Sri Lanka by 211 runs to take a 1-0 lead in the first Test of three-match series at the Galle International Stadium on Friday. Sri Lanka chasing a 462-run target, were all out for 250 on day four, with Moeen Ali taking four wickets and Jack Leach three.

England beat Sri Lanka by 211 runs to take a 1-0 lead in the first Test of three-match series at the Galle International Stadium on Friday. Sri Lanka chasing a 462-run target, were all out for 250 on day four, with Moeen Ali taking four wickets and Jack Leach three. England had secured a first innings lead of 139 and on Thursday an unbeaten 146 by Keaton Jennings, his first century since a ton on his 2016 debut, allowed Root to declare at 322 for six. Fifteen without loss overnight, openers Kaushal Silva and Dimuth Karunaratne withstood the pressure from England's formidable bowling attack for the first hour. But both fell after attacking shots, with Kaushal leg before trying to sweep Leach for 30 and Karunaratne caught and bowled by Ali for 26 and skipped down the pitch for an attempted heave. That's the game! England win by 211 runs, with Moeen Ali taking four wickets, Jack Leach three, and Ben Stokes snaffling three catches. Rangana Herath's final Test ends with him run out for five.#SLvENG 1st Test score ⬇️https://t.co/aBGojY53Jw pic.twitter.com/IDeg9ugZ20 — ICC (@ICC) November 9, 2018 × Dhananjaya de Silva, after a confident start, was caught at first slip by skipper Joe Root off Ben Stokes in the last over of the morning session for 21. One ball earlier, de Silva had been given out caught behind flashing at a Stokes delivery wide of the off stump, but he was reprieved on review. After lunch Kusal Mendis hit Leach for four over his head but attempting a repeat the next ball skied the ball to Ali and departed for 46. He had earlier appeared confident at the crease, employing the sweep shot especially well against all England’s spinners, while secure in defence. Home skipper Dinesh Chandimal, suffering from a groin injury that kept him off the pitch all of Thursday, was bowled by Leach for 11. The final session began badly for the hosts. Niroshan Dikwella fell the first ball after tea, caught adroitly by Stokes one-handed at slip off Ali for 16. Soon afterwards Angelo Mathews -- dropped on 18 by James Anderson -- went for 53, caught by Jos Buttler at midwicket with Ali again the wicket-taker. He was followed into the pavillon by Akila Dananjaya for 8 before Herath was run out for five. England's varied attack, with three quicks and three spinners, applied substantial pressure, with the slightly expensive Adil Rashid the only disappointment so far.

ENG vs SL, 1st Test: England beat Sri Lanka by 211 runs, take 1-0 lead

England beat Sri Lanka by 122 runs to win the fifth and final one-day international in Cardiff on Saturday.

Victory saw England take the series 3-0, with one tie and one no result.

England, sent into bat made 324 for seven, with Joe Root top-scoring with 93 and sharing a stand of 109 with Jos Buttler (70).

Sri Lanka, chasing a target of 325, were bowled out for 202 with more than seven overs to spare. 
 
(AFP)

Joe Root top-scored with 93 and shared a stand of 109 with Jos Buttler

England beat Sri Lanka by 122 runs to win the fifth and final one-day international in Cardiff on Saturday. Victory saw England take the series 3-0, with one tie and one no result. England, sent into bat made 324 for seven, with Joe Root top-scoring with 93 and sharing a stand of 109 with Jos Buttler (70). Sri Lanka, chasing a target of 325, were bowled out for 202 with more than seven overs to spare. (AFP)

England beat Sri Lanka by 122 runs in 5th ODI, win series 3-0

Wicketkeeper-batsman Jos Buttler believes England&#39;s batsmen should continue to be aggressive and play even more shots, even as the team&#39;s top-order crumbled against Sri Lanka in the tied first one-day international on Tuesday. 
 
Chasing a target of 287, England were reduced to 30 for four and then 82 for six before Buttler made 93 and Chris Woakes 95*, to give the hosts a chance of winning at Trent Bridge. 
 
Liam Plunkett then smashed the last ball of the match for six to earn his team a dramatic tie against the touring side. 
 
&quot;If anything we should come out and play even more shots,&quot; Buttler was quoted as saying by the British media. &quot;That&#39;s the way we want to play our cricket. We want to put teams under pressure and there&#39;s no reason to change. This style of cricket has been good fun to play in and has given us some success.&quot; 
 
England have displayed freedom and exuberance in their approach to the limited-overs formats since their humiliating group stage exit at last year&#39;s 50-over World Cup in Australia and New Zealand. 
 
Joe Root has been talismanic with the bat for them, but the right-hander has suffered a dip in form, scoring just 89 runs in his last five international innings, 80 of which came in one knock. 
 
Buttler feared it might have been caused by the heavy workload on Root&#39;s shoulders. 
 
&quot;He&#39;s one of the best in the world and it&#39;s probably just because of the high standards he&#39;s set...I&#39;m sure he&#39;ll bounce back,&quot; Buttler said. 
 
&quot;He plays all forms of the game and I think that&#39;s something England management always have to be careful with...he&#39;s a very important player and if he needs a rest he&#39;ll say he needs a rest and that will happen.&quot; 
 
(Reuters)&nbsp;

The wicket-keeper batsman finds the style fun to play and a good way to win

Wicketkeeper-batsman Jos Buttler believes England's batsmen should continue to be aggressive and play even more shots, even as the team's top-order crumbled against Sri Lanka in the tied first one-day international on Tuesday. Chasing a target of 287, England were reduced to 30 for four and then 82 for six before Buttler made 93 and Chris Woakes 95*, to give the hosts a chance of winning at Trent Bridge. Liam Plunkett then smashed the last ball of the match for six to earn his team a dramatic tie against the touring side. "If anything we should come out and play even more shots," Buttler was quoted as saying by the British media. "That's the way we want to play our cricket. We want to put teams under pressure and there's no reason to change. This style of cricket has been good fun to play in and has given us some success." England have displayed freedom and exuberance in their approach to the limited-overs formats since their humiliating group stage exit at last year's 50-over World Cup in Australia and New Zealand. Joe Root has been talismanic with the bat for them, but the right-hander has suffered a dip in form, scoring just 89 runs in his last five international innings, 80 of which came in one knock. Buttler feared it might have been caused by the heavy workload on Root's shoulders. "He's one of the best in the world and it's probably just because of the high standards he's set...I'm sure he'll bounce back," Buttler said. "He plays all forms of the game and I think that's something England management always have to be careful with...he's a very important player and if he needs a rest he'll say he needs a rest and that will happen." (Reuters)

Buttler backs England to stay aggressive

England&#39;s one-day captain Eoin Morgan said he hopes the test series win against Sri Lanka will provide the foundations for victory in the shorter format of the game, starting with the first ODI at Trent Bridge on Tuesday. 
 
England have recalled Jonny Bairstow into the ODI side following his superb form, which saw him named man of the series in the 2-0 test series victory against Sri Lanka. 
 
&quot;It&#39;s an unbelievable start. Cookie [test captain Alastair Cook] hands the baton over to me and hopefully I don&#39;t let him down,&quot; Morgan told reporters on Monday. &quot;Confidence is a big thing, and it&#39;s crucial to build on that confidence we&#39;ve had going forward.&quot; 
 
Morgan added that the absence of hard-hitting all-rounder Ben Stokes through injury would be a big blow for the side. 
 
&quot;It does affect us because Ben bats at five, doing both roles very well,&quot; he added. &quot;We don&#39;t have an answer to back up at the moment, but it does create an opportunity for someone else.&quot; 
 
Sri Lanka will have to cope without paceman Shaminda Eranga, who was banned for an illegal action by the International Cricket Council on Sunday just hours after he had been taken to hospital to undergo tests on his heart. 
 
Morgan said that though conditions have posed a challenge to Sri Lanka, he expects a tough fight in the shorter format of the game. 
 
&quot;They (Sri Lanka) have found it tough work since they came here, but ODI cricket comes more naturally to them,&quot; he said. &quot;They are ranked above us, so we won&#39;t take them for granted and we are looking to ourselves to build and put performances in.&quot; 
 
England play Sri Lanka in five ODI&#39;s and a one-off Twenty20 game in Southampton on July 5. 
 
(Reuters)

England take on Sri Lanka in the first ODI at Trent Bridge on Tuesday

England's one-day captain Eoin Morgan said he hopes the test series win against Sri Lanka will provide the foundations for victory in the shorter format of the game, starting with the first ODI at Trent Bridge on Tuesday. England have recalled Jonny Bairstow into the ODI side following his superb form, which saw him named man of the series in the 2-0 test series victory against Sri Lanka. "It's an unbelievable start. Cookie [test captain Alastair Cook] hands the baton over to me and hopefully I don't let him down," Morgan told reporters on Monday. "Confidence is a big thing, and it's crucial to build on that confidence we've had going forward." Morgan added that the absence of hard-hitting all-rounder Ben Stokes through injury would be a big blow for the side. "It does affect us because Ben bats at five, doing both roles very well," he added. "We don't have an answer to back up at the moment, but it does create an opportunity for someone else." Sri Lanka will have to cope without paceman Shaminda Eranga, who was banned for an illegal action by the International Cricket Council on Sunday just hours after he had been taken to hospital to undergo tests on his heart. Morgan said that though conditions have posed a challenge to Sri Lanka, he expects a tough fight in the shorter format of the game. "They (Sri Lanka) have found it tough work since they came here, but ODI cricket comes more naturally to them," he said. "They are ranked above us, so we won't take them for granted and we are looking to ourselves to build and put performances in." England play Sri Lanka in five ODI's and a one-off Twenty20 game in Southampton on July 5. (Reuters)

Morgan looking to carry on England's winning momentum