England enter the tournament as one of the favourites, buoyed by home conditions and a squad packed with international experience. Led by Nat Sciver-Brunt, the hosts boast a strong lineup featuring Heather Knight, Amy Jones, Alice Capsey, Sophie Ecclestone and Lauren Bell.
England’s confidence has also been boosted by a successful warm-up campaign, including a win over India. Having last won the Women’s T20 World Cup in 2009, the hosts will be determined to end their 17-year wait for another title.
One of England’s biggest strengths is their all-round balance. They possess explosive batting options at the top and in the middle order, while their bowling attack combines pace and spin, giving them the flexibility to adapt to different conditions.
Playing in familiar surroundings and backed by home support, England will start as favourites against Sri Lanka.
Sri Lanka, meanwhile, will look to pull off an upset in the tournament opener. Their hopes will largely rest on captain Chamari Athapaththu, whose aggressive batting has the ability to change the course of a match single-handedly.
The experienced opener remains Sri Lanka’s biggest match-winner and will play a crucial role if the visitors are to challenge England. Support from Harshitha Samarawickrama, Vishmi Gunaratne, Kavisha Dilhari and Sugandika Kumari will also be important.
Key battle: England’s depth vs Sri Lanka’s star power
While England appear stronger on paper, World Cup openers are often unpredictable. The contest could come down to England’s overall depth against Sri Lanka’s ability to produce moments of individual brilliance.
If Athapaththu gets going, Sri Lanka have the firepower to trouble the hosts. However, England’s experience and balance make them the favourites heading into the clash.
Squads
England: Nat Sciver-Brunt (c), Lauren Bell, Alice Capsey, Tilly Corteen-Coleman, Charlie Dean, Sophia Dunkley, Sophie Ecclestone, Lauren Filer, Dani Gibson, Amy Jones, Freya Kemp, Heather Knight, Linsey Smith, Issy Wong, Danni Wyatt-Hodge.
Sri Lanka: Chamari Athapaththu (c), Hasini Perera, Vishmi Gunarathne, Harshitha Samarawickrama, Imesha Dulani, Nilakshika Silva, Kaveesha Dilhari, Hansima Karunarathne, Kaushini Nuthyangana, Sugandika Dassanayaka, Nimasha Madushani, Kawya Kavindi, Malki Madara, Mithali Ayodhya, Chethana Vimukthi
