England prepares to kick off their T20 international series against Sri Lanka with a notable debut for Aneurin Donald, the 29-year-old Derbyshire batter, on Tuesday night in Southampton. The match, set to start at 6:30 PM UK time, will be broadcast live on Sky Sports.

Donald will open the batting alongside Jos Buttler, filling the gap left by Phil Salt, who is sidelined due to a quad injury. This season, Donald has showcased his skills by scoring 489 runs in the Vitality Blast, including four half-centuries and a tournament-high 37 sixes.

England's coach, Brendon McCullum, expressed enthusiasm about Donald's inclusion, stating:

"Aneurin will open the batting with Jos, which is very exciting. He has raw power and an incredible amount of talent."

The starting lineup also features captain Harry Brook, Tom Banton, Jordan Cox, and Will Jacks, while all-rounders Jamie Overton and Liam Dawson occupy the seventh and eighth spots. Fast bowlers Josh Tongue and Sonny Baker, along with spinner Adil Rashid, complete the squad.

In terms of injuries, Jacob Bethell (knee) and Sam Curran (groin) will miss the series. McCullum indicated that Tongue might also be rested for the second match in Cardiff on Thursday.

Notably, fast bowler Brydon Carse is absent from the squad following an off-field incident. McCullum emphasized the importance of responsibility for players, stating:

"Playing for England comes with responsibility."

As the series unfolds, England and Sri Lanka will also contest three one-day internationals, beginning on September 22 in Durham. Fans can catch all the action live on Sky Sports Cricket.