Sri Lanka's right-arm medium-fast bowler Milan Rathnayake will make his Test debut in the first match of the three-Test series against England at Old Trafford. His inclusion marks a significant moment for the uncapped pacer with a strong domestic record.

In Short

• Milan Rathnayake to make Test debut for Sri Lanka against England
• Milan Rathnayake has taken 81 wickets in 40 first-class matches
• Sri Lanka have not secured Test victory over England since June 2014

Sri Lanka's right-arm medium-fast bowler, Milan Rathnayake, is set to make his Test debut in the opening match of the three-Test series against England at Old Trafford, Manchester. Sri Lanka Cricket announced Rathnayake's inclusion in the playing XI on Tuesday, marking a significant moment for the uncapped pacer with a strong domestic record. Rathnayake, who has taken 81 wickets in 40 first-class matches, was previously named in the squads for the New Zealand and Ireland series in 2023 but did not feature in any games. 

His selection for the first Test against England is seen as a reward for his consistent performances in domestic cricket.

Sri Lanka faces a tough challenge, having lost their recent warm-up match against England Lions by seven wickets. They have not secured a Test victory over England since June 2014, adding to the anticipation surrounding Rathnayake's debut and the team's performance in the series.