Milan Rathnayake is set to make his Test debut for Sri Lanka against England at Old Trafford on August 21, 2024, joining a pace attack that includes Asitha Fernando and Vishwa Fernando, with Prabath Jayasuriya as the only specialist spinner. Sri Lanka's recent form has been challenging, having lost a warm-up match to England Lions by seven wickets and not having secured a Test victory against England since June 2014. This series is critical for Sri Lanka, currently positioned fourth in the World Test Championship, as they prepare for upcoming matches against New Zealand. The absence of England's regular captain Ben Stokes due to injury could provide an opportunity for Sri Lanka to capitalize. The team's performance in this series will be closely monitored, especially given their limited match experience compared to England. The second and third Tests are scheduled for August 26 at Lord's and September 6 at the Oval.