Kusal Mendis. Photo: CollectedCOLOMBO, Jan 22, 2026 (BSS/AFP) - Kusal Mendis played the anchor role with a surgeon's touch as Sri Lanka posted a competitive 271 for six after opting to bat first in the opening one-day international against England at Colombo's R. Premadasa Stadium on Thursday. The wicketkeeper batter was left stranded on 93, but his knock proved the glue that held Sri Lanka's innings together after the top order wobbled against England's spin. At 124 for four, with leg-spinners Rehan Ahmed and Adil Rashid asking probing questions, Sri Lanka were staring down the barrel. Sri Lanka were hardly complaining as the last over from Jamie Overton disappeared for 23 runs, Wellalage launching three fours and a six in a blistering cameo of 25 not out from 12 balls.

Source: Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha January 22, 2026 13:46 UTC