In the series opener at Colombo, a ground where setting a target is statistically advantageous, Sri Lanka won the toss and opted to bat first. England captain Harry Brook admitted he would have made the same choice, but his primary focus was a forced adjustment to the lineup. Despite naming their team the previous evening, England had to replace all-rounder Will Jacks. This late withdrawal paved the way for young leg-spinner Rehan Ahmed to join the XI, offering the visitors a tactical shift toward a spin-heavy attack on a surface expected to grip.

Here’s why Will Jacks is not in the playing XI despite being initially named for the Colombo ODI

The R. Premadasa Stadium saw hurried changes just an hour before the toss on Thursday, January 22, 2026. Jacks, who was set to play a pivotal role as an aggressive top-order batter and off-spin bowler, was assessed by the medical team during the pre-match warm-ups. Despite his importance to the team’s balance, the sudden onset of illness meant he was unable to take the field. England’s management confirmed the late withdrawal just as the team sheets were being finalized, forcing a tactical shift toward a more spin-heavy bowling unit.

Captain Brook addressed the unexpected change at the toss:

“We would have had a bat first, but it is what it is. Zak [Crawley] comes in to open the batting with Ben [Duckett]. Rehan comes in for an ill Will Jacks. Sri Lanka are a massive side at home and we want to do well against them.” Brook said.

The absence of Jacks is a significant blow for the visitors, especially as he was expected to anchor the middle order and chip in with crucial overs. However, the medical staff prioritized his recovery, with the hope that he will be available for the second ODI on Saturday.

Also WATCH: Sri Lanka unveils ICC T20 World Cup 2026 trophy in a spectacular fashion at R Premadasa Stadium

SL vs ENG 2026: Kusal Mendis anchors Sri Lanka to 271 as England’s spin-heavy attack toils

Drafted into the side just minutes before the toss, the tactical shift saw England lean on their slower bowlers as Sri Lanka posted a competitive 271/6 from their 50 overs. The match began with a steady 50-run opening stand between Pathum Nissanka and Kamil Mishara, before Sam Curran provided the breakthrough. England’s spinners then took control, with Adil Rashid dismissing Mishara and later trapping Dhananjaya de Silva LBW for 10. Rehan Ahmed also made an impact, dismissing the dangerous Charith Asalanka (17) after a top-edged sweep hit the batter’s helmet and lobbed to Harry Brook at leg slip.

Despite the regular wickets, Sri Lanka’s innings was anchored by a brilliant, unbeaten 93 from Kusal Mendis, who weathered the spin threat with immense composure despite visibly struggling with back pain late in his knock. Mendis found able support in Janith Liyanage, who contributed a vital 46 in an 88-run partnership that stabilized the hosts. A late, quickfire cameo of 25* off 12 balls from Dunith Wellalage helped push the total past the 270-mark. For England, Rashid was the pick of the bowlers with 3/44, while the visitors now face a challenging chase on a pitch that is expected to grip even more under lights.

Also READ: T20 World Cup 2026: Setback for Bangladesh, Pakistan explore alternatives

For latest cricket news & updates, visit CricketTimes.com.