The England & Wales Cricket Board (ECB) has announced a schedule change for the women's white-ball home series against Sri Lanka. The three-match T20I series and the three-match ODI series, which were originally scheduled for September, have been brought forward to August 31 and September 9-14 respectively.
This decision came after Sri Lanka Cricket's request for the change, due to the confirmation of women's cricket being a part of the Asian Games 2023. The series will be crucial for Sri Lanka to prepare for the tournament scheduled in Hangzhou, China from September 23 to October 8.
The T20I series will begin on August 31 at Hove, followed by matches at Chelmsford and Derby. The ODI series will take place from September 9-14, with matches scheduled in Chester-le-Street, Northampton, and Leicester.
In a statement, the ECB said, "Following a request from Sri Lanka Cricket due to the confirmation of the women's cricket tournament at the 2023 Asian Games, the England & Wales Cricket Board have mutually agreed to a schedule change."
The change in schedule has also resulted in a change in venues, with the T20I series opener now set to take place at Hove instead of an ODI. Canterbury, which was originally set to host an ODI, will no longer be a part of the series.
This series is a significant opportunity for England and Sri Lanka to showcase their skills and gain crucial momentum ahead of the upcoming international fixtures. The England Women's team will be looking to continue their impressive form, while Sri Lanka will be determined to make their mark and put up a strong fight.
Schedule:
1st T20I - August 31, Hove
2nd T20I - September 2, Chelmsford
3rd T20I - September 6, Derby
1st ODI - September 9, Chester-le-Street
2nd ODI - September 12, Northampton
3rd ODI - September 14, Leicester