Pakistan lock horns against Sri Lanka in a crucial dress rehearsal ahead of the T20 World Cup 2026. The two are facing each other in a three-match T20I series in Dambulla, Sri Lanka.
The series is Pakistan's last T20I assignment ahead of the World Cup next month. They will look to make the most of the outings as they gear up for the showpiece.
Meanwhile, the Men in Green will be missing the services of Babar Azam and Shaheen Shah Afridi, as both of the players have not been picked in the T20I squads.
Why are Babar and Shaheen not playing SL vs PAK 1st T20I?
Pakistan did not pick the players indulged in the Big Bash League in the T20I series against the Sri Lankan side. This was due to PCB committing to Cricket Australia for the full availability of their players for the franchise tournament. The two are currently playing in the BBL.
Coming back to the match, Pakistan won the toss and opted to bowl first. "We are going to bowl first. It looks like a good wicket, it has been under the covers for a few days because of the rain and we want to use any help which is there. They (senior players missing out) are outstanding players and will be back soon. Shadab Khan is coming back and we are pretty balanced. There's still a month to go, some of them are playing their first World Cup and some have played 2-3 World Cups, everyone are excited," Pakistan captain Salman said at the toss.
"Seems like a very good wicket. But you know how the Dambulla pitches are.. Expecting a high-scoring game. It is a good set-up to showcase their skills; we have 7 batters and 4 specialist bowlers. There is excitement as it is a home World Cup and hopefully the goods will be delivered," Sri Lanka skipper Dasun Shanaka said.
Pakistan's Playing XI: Saim Ayub, Sahibzada Farhan, Salman Agha(c), Fakhar Zaman, Usman Khan(w), Shadab Khan, Mohammad Nawaz, Faheem Ashraf, Mohammad Wasim Jr, Salman Mirza, Abrar Ahmed
Sri Lanka's Playing XI: Pathum Nissanka, Kamil Mishara, Kusal Mendis(w), Dhananjaya de Silva, Charith Asalanka, Dasun Shanaka(c), Janith Liyanage, Wanindu Hasaranga, Maheesh Theekshana, Dushmantha Chameera, Nuwan Thushara
