England vs Sri Lanka First ODI Predictions: Hosts Pick Up Where They Left Off After T20 Series Success

Following an emphatic T20 series win, England are clear cricket betting favourites for the first ODI against Sri Lanka on Tuesday.

Sri Lanka’s ODI performances in recent years have arguably been worse than their T20 offerings. They were hammered in all three matches in the shortest format and lost a home 50-over series to England earlier this year.

Under the leadership of Harry Brook, England appeared to have turned a corner in ODI cricket, regaining the sort of form that made them world champions seven years ago.

Failing to qualify for the most recent Champions Trophy, Sri Lanka have all but guaranteed a spot at next year’s World Cup, but this is very much a team in flux. Their specialist bowlers went the distance in the T20s, so don’t be surprised if they mix it up a bit here and give Asitha Fernando an opportunity.

England still have work to do as an ODI outfit, and balancing the side remains a bit of an issue. Ben Duckett has yet another opening partner with Tom Banton replacing the injured Jacob Bethell at the top of the order. Rehan Ahmed is also getting a rare opportunity due to Adil Rashid’s hand injury.

It is this format where Stokes’ all-around ability is felt the most starkly. Swapping Stokes for Jamie Overton would completely change how this team looks on paper.

England v Sri Lanka First ODI Best Bets & Predictions

• England To Win, Harry Brook To Score A Fifty & Jofra Archer Over 1 Wicket (7/2)
• England To Win, England Highest Opening Partnership & England Most Sixes (7/5)

Brook’s form in T20 cricket was quite frankly frightening. It’s not a stretch to say he’s the best all-format batter in the world right now. Yes, ODI cricket has been a weakness by his standards, but he’s got a strong record as skipper and has an ODI century in Durham.

Jofra Archer wasn’t at his best in the T20 series, but he’s been bowling very quickly. It’s not a huge ask for him to take a couple of wickets given that he takes the new ball and will bowl at the death.

Duckett’s form in Test cricket wasn’t great, though we still like taking England for the highest opening partnership. Banton has had a strong season. England will fancy their chances of making early breakthroughs.

*Odds subject to change – prices accurate at the time of writing*