SL vs ENG Dream11 Prediction, T20 World Cup: Fantasy Cricket Tips, Playing XI & Pitch Report

The ICC Men's T20 World Cup action heads to Kandy as Sri Lanka prepares to host England in what promises to be a fascinating contest. Both teams have had contrasting fortunes recently, but with the match set at the Pallekele International Cricket Stadium, local conditions will play a massive role. Fantasy managers need to keep an eye on Sam Curran, who has been in sensational all round form, and Pathum Nissanka, the backbone of the Lankan batting lineup. Here is everything you need to know to build your winning strategy.

Match Details

• Match: Sri Lanka vs England
• Series: ICC Men's T20 World Cup
• Date: 22 Feb 2026
• Time: 15:00 IST (Local Time)
• Venue: Pallekele International Cricket Stadium, Kandy

Live Streaming & Broadcast Details

Cricket fans can catch the live action on Star Sports Network and stream it digitally via the Disney+ Hotstar app and website.

To know where you can watch live streaming in your country, visit this complete guide: ICC Men’s World Cup 2026 Live Streaming Channels – Country wise Guide

Weather Report

The weather in Kandy is expected to be warm and humid with temperatures hovering around 28°C. Being a day match, the Dew factor is unlikely to impact the second innings significantly. However, there is always a slight chance of afternoon showers in this region, so keeping an eye on the live forecast is essential. High humidity will test the stamina of the fast bowlers.

Pitch Report & Venue Stats

The surface at Pallekele International Cricket Stadium has historically been balanced, but recent trends suggest a shift. In the last 5 matches, the venue has seen 34 Spinner Wickets compared to just 26 Pacer Wickets.

With an Avg Runs score of 165, this is not a flat batting paradise. The pitch tends to slow down as the game progresses, making spinners and cutters highly effective. The fantasy takeaway is clear: load your teams with quality spinners and technical batters who can play spin well.

Team Form & Head to-Head

Sri Lanka

• Last 5 Matches: L W W W L
• The hosts have won 3 of their last 5 games but are coming off a loss. Their batting relies heavily on the top order.
• Head to-Head: They have struggled massively against the English side historically.

England

• Last 5 Matches: W W L W W
• The defending champions are in red hot form, winning 4 of their last 5 encounters. Their all round depth is their biggest strength.
• Head to-Head: England dominates this rivalry with 8 wins in recent history.

Injury Updates & Player Availability

• Sri Lanka: Major blow for the hosts as star bowler Wanindu Hasaranga and pacer Matheesha Pathirana are listed as UNAVAILABLE for this clash. Eshan Malinga is also out.
• England: The visitors have a mostly fully fit squad available for selection.

Probable Playing XI

Sri Lanka

Pathum Nissanka, Kusal Perera, Kusal Mendis, Kamindu Mendis, Charith Asalanka, Dasun Shanaka, Dunith Wellalage, Dushan Hemantha, Maheesh Theekshana, Dilshan Madushanka, Pramod Madushan

England

Phil Salt, Jos Buttler, Jacob Bethell, Tom Banton, Harry Brook, Sam Curran, Will Jacks, Jamie Overton, Jofra Archer, Adil Rashid, Liam Dawson

Key Players to Watch

• Sam Curran: The all rounder is a must have. He has scored 98 runs and taken 6 wickets in the series, averaging 104.5 fantasy points. He enjoys bowling at the death.
• Pathum Nissanka: He is the leading run scorer for the hosts with 199 runs in the series. His ability to anchor the innings makes him a safe pick.
• Jacob Bethell: A massive differential pick. In the recent game at this venue, he picked up 4 wickets. His left arm spin is lethal on this track.
• Maheesh Theekshana: With Hasaranga out, the onus falls on Theekshana. He has 6 wickets in the series and will exploit the turning conditions in Kandy.

Fantasy Picks

Small League Safe Picks

• Sam Curran
• Pathum Nissanka
• Kusal Mendis

Mega League Differential Picks

• Jacob Bethell: Selected by fewer people as a primary captain option, but his venue record is excellent.
• Kamindu Mendis: Offers value with both bat and ball (off break & slow left arm), perfect for these conditions.

Match Prediction / Outlook

While Sri Lanka has the home advantage, the absence of key bowlers like Hasaranga weakens them significantly. England boasts superior depth and recent form. Expect England to win, but if the pitch turns square, the Lankan spinners could make it a tight contest.

Disclaimer

This analysis is based on current stats and expert understanding. Always check the Final Playing XI and Toss updates before locking your fantasy team.