Sri Lanka announce ODI squad for Pakistan tri-series

Sri Lanka have announced their 16-member ODI squad for the upcoming tri-series in Pakistan, with the tournament serving as an important part of their preparations for the 2027 ICC World Cup.

Who will lead Sri Lanka in the ODI tri-series?

Kusal Mendis has been named captain as Sri Lanka look to build a settled ODI combination ahead of the global tournament. The squad combines experienced players with several emerging talents, giving the selectors an opportunity to assess their options in competitive conditions.

Former captain Dasun Shanaka remains an important part of the side, offering valuable all-round experience, while Kamindu Mendis, Dunith Wellalage and Janith Liyanage add further flexibility.

Is Pathum Nissanka fit to play?

Pathum Nissanka has been included in the squad, but his participation is not yet guaranteed. The opening batter will travel with the team only if he receives medical clearance.

His availability could be significant for Sri Lanka, particularly as they look to establish a reliable top order ahead of the World Cup cycle.

Alongside Nissanka, the batting group features Avishka Fernando, Kamil Mishara and Pavan Rathnayake, while Sahan Arachchige and Kamindu Mendis provide additional middle-order options.

How strong is Sri Lanka’s bowling attack?

Sri Lanka have selected a varied bowling unit featuring both pace and spin. Maheesh Theekshana will lead the spin department, with wrist-spinner Sachindu Colombage providing another attacking option.

The pace attack includes experienced campaigners Dushmantha Chameera, Asitha Fernando and Dilshan Madushanka, while Eshan Malinga adds another promising option.

The combination gives Sri Lanka several ways to adapt to different conditions in Pakistan, where the pitches in Rawalpindi and Lahore could offer contrasting challenges.

When does Sri Lanka’s Pakistan tour begin?

Sri Lanka’s first group has already arrived in Islamabad ahead of the three-match T20I series against Pakistan. The opening contingent includes Kusal Mendis, Dasun Shanaka, Maheesh Theekshana, Eshan Malinga, Kamindu Mendis, Lahiru Udara, Chamindu Wickramasinghe and Dunith Wellalage, along with five members of the team management.

The remaining members of the squad are expected to arrive in stages, with the head coach and two players due on Monday and five more T20I players scheduled to arrive on Tuesday.

Pakistan and Sri Lanka will play all three T20Is at Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium from October 9 to 13.

When does the ODI tri-series begin?

The ODI competition will begin on October 18, when Pakistan face Sri Lanka in Rawalpindi. Pakistan will then meet England on October 20, followed by Sri Lanka against England on October 22.

The action will subsequently move to Lahore, where Pakistan play England on October 25 before facing Sri Lanka on October 27.

Sri Lanka and England will meet in the final league match on October 29, with the top two teams progressing to the final at Gaddafi Stadium on October 31.

ODI squad: Kusal Mendis (c), Sahan Arachchige, Dushmantha Chameera, Sachindu Colombage, Avishka Fernando, Asitha Fernando, Janith Liyanage, Dilshan Madushanka, Eshan Malinga, Kamindu Mendis, Kamil Mishara,Pathum Nissanka, Pavan Rathnayake, Dasun Shanaka, Maheesh Theekshana, Dunith Wellalage

T20I squad: Kusal Mendis (c), Kamil Mishara, Sineth Jayawardena, Lahiru Udara, Sahan Arachchige, Kamindu Mendis, Dasun Shanaka, Chamindu Wickramasinghe, Dunith Wellalage, Maheesh Theekshana, Vijayakanth Viyaskanth, Dushmantha Chameera, Binura Fernando, Nuwan Thushara, Eshan Malinga