A quick T20 game will give England and Sri Lanka to London's Oval, as an appetizer for the 5 main course ODI match between the two teams.
The English seem to be warmer for this game, as they want to make a fresh start after a tough failure at the T20 World Cup. In addition, they are trying to create a team tie with British fans who seem to have turned back in English cricket after recent failures.
The team chosen by the English for this game is quite nice, with players who can make big shots and make a big score, but it is not so strong at bowling and this is expected to cause problems in the course of the race if they do not come fast wickets for England.
Sri Lanka, on the other hand, goes into play with two major absences, since Sangakarra and Jayawardene went into retirement and lost their leader and one of the most important players in their history. He will still miss the Herath's bowler, who had a spectacular performance at the T20 world championship and is a blow to Sri Lanka's bowling.
After the retirements, Lasith Malinga is the leader in the Sri Lankan team, but he does not inspire confidence as a leader and is doubtful whether he can lead his team to success. Besides, this season is not in the best position and his team, the Mumbai Indians, are expected to finish in the last position of the Indian Premier League.
The pitch favors batters and wicket is a difficult affair. So I see the English having an avant-garde, since the Sri Lankan team is mainly based on its impressive bowling. However, as it is likely to have rain that will cause problems during the race, I keep my bet low.