By Chalien Dantes

England may have changed formats and opponents, but familiar problems resurfaced as they slipped to defeat against Sri Lanka in the opening one-day international in Colombo.

Just two weeks on from their 4-1 Ashes setback in Australia, England found themselves bogged down on a slow, low pitch where Sri Lanka’s spinners tightened the screws. Kusal Mendis set the tone with a calm and controlled 93 not out, lifting the hosts to a challenging total of 272.

In reply, England looked steady early on. Ben Duckett’s fluent 62 provided early momentum, while Joe Root added a polished 61 to keep the chase alive. But both batters fell attempting sweeps, opening the door for Sri Lanka to apply pressure.

From there, England’s innings unravelled quickly. Eight wickets fell for just 84 runs, with Harry Brook and Jacob Bethell both beaten and stumped as the asking rate climbed out of reach. Jamie Overton’s late blows briefly raised hopes, but needing 20 from the final over, his mistimed shot to cover ended the chase at 252.

The 19-run margin flattered England after a match largely controlled by the hosts. The loss leaves England trailing 1-0 in the three-match series and extends a worrying run to 11 straight ODI defeats away from home.

The teams meet again at the same venue on Saturday, where England will be searching for answers and a response.