Anyeurin Donald to Open on T20I Debut as England Name XI Against Sri Lanka

England have announced their playing XI for the first T20I against Sri Lanka, naming their team around 24 hours before the match. Right-handed batter Anyeurin Donald is set to make his international T20 debut and will take on the responsibility of opening the innings.

Donald has been handed the opportunity after regular opener Phil Salt was ruled out through injury. The young batter will therefore walk straight into the opening position for his first appearance in international T20 cricket.

It will be a significant opportunity for Donald to make an impression at international level. With Salt unavailable, England have opted to give him the responsibility of starting the innings alongside the other established members of the batting lineup.

England Announce XI Ahead of First T20I

England confirmed their playing XI a day before the opening T20I against Sri Lanka, with Salt's injury forcing a change at the top of the order.

Donald has benefited from that change and will make his international T20 debut as an opener. The role gives him an immediate chance to show whether he can handle the demands of international cricket.

The first T20I will therefore be an important occasion for Donald as he looks to establish himself in England's T20 setup.