England entered the tournament as one of the favorites due to their home conditions and a squad full of international experience. Led by Nat Sciver-Brunt, the hosts boast a strong line-up including Heather Knight, Amy Jones, Alice Capsey, Sophie Ecclestone and Lauren Bell.
A successful warm-up campaign, including a win against India, has boosted England’s confidence. 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.
England’s greatest strength is their all-round balance. He has explosive batting options in the top and middle order, while his bowling attack combines pace and spin, giving him the flexibility to adapt to different situations.
Playing in familiar surroundings and backed by the home support, England will open as favorites against Sri Lanka.
Sri Lanka, meanwhile, will look to pull off an upset in the tournament opener. Their hopes will rest largely on skipper Chamari Athapathu, whose aggressive batting has the ability to single-handedly turn the tide of a match.
The experienced opener remains Sri Lanka’s biggest match-winner and will play a vital role if the visitors are to challenge England. The contribution of Harshita Samaravikrama, Vashmi Gunaratne, Kavisha Dilhari and Sugandika Kumari will also be important.
Key battle: England’s depth vs Sri Lanka’s star power
While England look stronger on paper, World Cup openers are often unpredictable. This encounter could come against England’s overall depth and Sri Lanka’s ability to produce moments of individual glory.
If Athapatthu gets going, Sri Lanka have the power to trouble the hosts. However, England’s experience and balance make them favorites in the clash.
Troops
England: Nate Skewer Brunt (c), Lauren Bell, Alice Keapsey, Tilly Courtin-Coleman, Charlie Dean, Sophia Dunkley, Sophie Axton, Lauren Filer, Danny Gibson, Amy Jones, Freya Kemp, Heather Knight, Lynsey Smith, Aye Wang, Danny
Sri Lanka: Chamari Athapatthu (c), Hussaini Perera, Vashmi Gunarathne, Harshitha Samarawickrama, Ameesha Dulani, Nilakshika Silva, Kwesha Dilhari, Hansima Karunaratne, Kushini Nothiangana, Sugandika Dasanayaka, Nimasha Madushani, Mallya Kavya, Madhuena, Chevya Kavya Vemukti
