England will be gunning for a series whitewash when they meet Sri Lanka in the third Investec Test at Lord’s starting on Thursday and will be hopeful that complacency doesn’t set in.
Alastair Cook’s men have been ruthless so far in this Test series and will take great delight in securing a 3-0 series win ahead of the Royal London ODI series and the visit of Pakistan later in the summer.
After two convincing victories at Headingley and Chester-le-Street, these tests have not had much in terms of stiff competition – save for Sri Lanka’s second innings at Durham – but the warmer weather could bring the tourists’ spinners into the equation.
Sri Lanka could now missing their three main seam bowlers, after it was revealed Shaminda Eranga’s action is now under ICC scrutiny, with Dhammika Prasad and Dushmantha Chameera both out injured.
Rangana Herath became only the third Sri Lankan bowler to pass 300 Test wickets in the match and, as always, much will rest on his shoulders if Sri Lanka are to salvage something from the series.
Kusal Perera could come back into the side, after his doping ban was lifted by the ICC. "He's been out of cricket for the time he has been, so it's not going to be easy," said Head Coach Graham Ford.
“But he is a classy player. He is a special player, and I will have no problem selecting him.
"Whatever he has gone through mentally he will be up for it, I am sure he will appreciate every day that he gets from here on.
"If he gets a chance to come back in the greatest venue in world cricket, I am sure he will grab it with both hands."
England might have a bowling selection dilemma of their own, with Jake Ball possibly in line for inclusion instead of Steven Finn.
Ball has performed consistently for Nottinghamshire this season and has been 12th man for England’s first two tests.
Chris Woakes will reprise his role as the pace-bowling allrounder in the continued absence of Ben Stokes, with Moeen Ali capitalising on his chance to bat higher in the order with 155 not out in the second test.
Meanwhile, Nick Compton will be keen for runs as he looks to cement his place in England’s batting order for the rest of the summer.
The third Investec Test at Lord’s gets underway at 11am on Thursday morning.
England then entertain Sri Lanka in the Royal London ODI series, which concludes with a match at The SSE SWALEC, Cardiff on July 2. Secure your seats by clicking here.