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RAWALPINDI: The three-match One Day International (ODI) series between Pakistan and Sri Lanka begins today at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium, with the opening match scheduled to start at 2:30 PM. The series marks Sri Lanka’s tour of Pakistan, and both teams are set to enter the field with full preparation and determination.
Shaheen Afridi to Lead Pakistan for the First Time as Permanent Captain
Pakistan will be led by Shaheen Shah Afridi, who is captaining the ODI side for the first time on home soil. Speaking to reporters before the match, Shaheen expressed confidence in his squad, saying that the team is well-balanced and ready to deliver a strong performance in front of the home crowd.
Pakistan Squad
Pakistan’s squad features a balanced mix of experience and youth. The selected players include:
Shaheen Shah Afridi (C), Babar Azam, Fakhar Zaman, Saim Ayub, Mohammad Rizwan (wk), Haseebullah Khan (wk), Salman Ali Agha, Faheem Ashraf, Mohammad Nawaz, Hussain Talat, Mohammad Wasim Jr., Haris Rauf, Naseem Shah, Abrar Ahmed, and Faisal Akram.
The batting lineup will rely on the consistency of Babar Azam, with Fakhar Zaman and Saim Ayub expected to provide a strong opening stand. The middle order, featuring Rizwan, Salman Agha, Nawaz, and Talat, adds stability, while Faheem Ashraf offers depth as a bowling all-rounder.
In bowling, Pakistan will count on its pace attack led by Shaheen Afridi, Naseem Shah, Haris Rauf, Mohammad Wasim Jr., supported by spinners Abrar Ahmed and Faisal Akram.
Asalanka to Lead Sri Lanka’s Balanced Unit
Sri Lanka, captained by Charith Asalanka, will depend heavily on its strong spin department and disciplined batting lineup. The team includes Wanindu Hasaranga (all-rounder), Lahiru Udara (wk), Janith Liyanage, Eshan Malinga, Kusal Mendis (wk), Kamindu Mendis, Kamil Mishara, and Pathum Nissanka.
Asalanka, known for his aggressive middle-order batting, is expected to anchor the innings, while Nissanka and Mishara are likely to open. The presence of Hasaranga strengthens both batting and bowling, making Sri Lanka a dangerous opponent.
Pitch and Weather Conditions
Rawalpindi’s weather is pleasant, with clear skies expected throughout the day. The pitch is dry and batting-friendly, offering some movement for pacers early on. Experts suggest that a first-innings total of 280–300 runs would be competitive.
Background
Pakistan last toured Sri Lanka in 2024, where they won the ODI series 2–1. Now, playing at home, Pakistan will aim to continue their winning momentum ahead of the 2026 ICC World Cup.
A large crowd is expected at Rawalpindi Stadium as fans eagerly await a thrilling contest between Shaheen Afridi’s Pakistan and Asalanka’s Sri Lanka, both teams eager to start the series with a victory.
