Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) has officially announced its 16-member squads for the highly anticipated ODI and T20I series against Pakistan, starting November 11. The matches will also lead into a T20I tri-series featuring Zimbabwe, providing crucial preparation for next year’s ICC T20 World Cup.
Charith Asalanka Leads Sri Lanka in Both Formats
Dynamic middle-order batter Charith Asalanka will captain Sri Lanka in both the ODI and T20I formats. His leadership will be tested as the team faces Pakistan on home soil before entering a competitive tri-nation battle.
The tour begins with a three-match ODI series on November 11, 13, and 15, followed by the T20I tri-series starting November 17 in Rawalpindi. The grand finale is scheduled for November 29 at Lahore’s iconic Gaddafi Stadium.
Injury Updates and Replacement Announcements
Sri Lanka faced early setbacks due to injuries and illnesses among key players. Dilshan Madushanka, initially selected for the ODI squad, suffered a knee injury and has been ruled out of the tour. In his place, Eshan Malinga has earned a well-deserved call-up.
Similarly, Matheesha Pathirana, who was expected to feature in the T20I series, will miss the matches due to an upper respiratory tract infection (URTI). Asitha Fernando will step in as his replacement, strengthening Sri Lanka’s pace attack.
According to an official statement, “The selectors have named Eshan Malinga as a replacement for Madushanka in the ODI squad, and Asitha Fernando will replace Pathirana in the T20I squad.”
Sri Lanka’s ODI Squad
The ODI lineup reflects a balanced combination of youth and experience. The squad includes key performers such as Kusal Mendis, Wanindu Hasaranga, and Dushmantha Chameera, who bring stability to both batting and bowling departments.
ODI Squad:
Charith Asalanka (c), Pathum Nissanka, Lahiru Udara, Kamil Mishara, Kusal Mendis, Sadeera Samarawickrama, Kamindu Mendis, Janith Liyanage, Pavan Rathnayake, Wanindu Hasaranga, Maheesh Theekshana, Jeffrey Vandersay, Dushmantha Chameera, Asitha Fernando, Pramod Madushan, and Eshan Malinga.
Sri Lanka’s T20I Squad
The T20I squad features some explosive players, making Sri Lanka a serious contender in the tri-series. With Kusal Perera, Dasun Shanaka, and Bhanuka Rajapaksa adding firepower, the team looks well-balanced and versatile across departments.
T20I Squad:
Charith Asalanka (c), Pathum Nissanka, Kusal Mendis, Kusal Perera, Kamil Mishara, Dasun Shanaka (vc), Kamindu Mendis, Bhanuka Rajapaksa, Janith Liyanage, Wanindu Hasaranga, Maheesh Theekshana, Dushan Hemantha, Dushmantha Chameera, Nuwan Thushara, Asitha Fernando, and Eshan Malinga.
Complete T20I Tri-Series Schedule
The upcoming T20I Tri-Series between Pakistan, Sri Lanka, and Zimbabwe promises thrilling cricket action. All matches will be played across Rawalpindi and Lahore.
Match Schedule:
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17 November: Pakistan vs Zimbabwe – Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium
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19 November: Sri Lanka vs Zimbabwe – Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium
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22 November: Pakistan vs Sri Lanka – Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore
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23 November: Pakistan vs Zimbabwe – Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore
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25 November: Sri Lanka vs Zimbabwe – Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore
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27 November: Pakistan vs Sri Lanka – Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore
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29 November: Final – Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore
A Crucial Step Toward ICC T20 World Cup 2026
This tour marks an essential preparation phase for Sri Lanka ahead of the ICC T20 World Cup 2026, which will be co-hosted by India and Sri Lanka. The players will gain valuable experience in subcontinent conditions, which could prove vital for next year’s mega event.
Fans eagerly await to see whether Charith Asalanka’s leadership can bring consistency and confidence back to Sri Lankan cricket as they face strong opposition in Pakistan and Zimbabwe.
Author Profile
- Khalid Javed is known as Khalid Minhas is editor of Daily Olympic.He is a seasoned journalist and worked with different national and international media outlets.
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