Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) has officially announced its ODI and T20I squads for the upcoming tour of Pakistan, a key assignment scheduled for November 2025. The tour includes a three-match ODI series followed by a high-intensity T20I tri-series featuring Sri Lanka, Pakistan, and Zimbabwe. With important global white-ball tournaments approaching, the series represents a crucial opportunity for Sri Lanka to refine their combinations, test bench strength, and assess the form of key players under competitive subcontinental conditions.
A New-Look Leadership Core
Charith Asalanka continues as Sri Lanka’s white-ball captain, leading both ODI and T20I squads. His calm temperament, middle-order consistency, and growing tactical maturity have earned him the trust of team management. Dasun Shanaka has been named vice-captain for the T20Is, bringing leadership experience and balance in the middle order along with his seam-bowling option.
ODI Squad Breakdown
Sri Lanka’s ODI squad blends stability at the top, flexibility in the middle order, and a mix of experience and rising talent in the bowling department.
ODI Squad:
Pathum Nissanka, Lahiru Udara, Kamil Mishara, Kusal Mendis, Sadeera Samarawickrama, Charith Asalanka (c), Kamindu Mendis, Janith Liyanage, Pavan Rathnayake, Wanindu Hasaranga, Maheesh Theekshana, Jeffrey Vandersay, Dushmantha Chameera, Asitha Fernando, Pramod Madushan, Eshan Malinga.
One of the biggest developments is the replacement of left-arm seamer Dilshan Madushanka, who was sidelined due to a knee injury. His absence opens the door for Eshan Malinga, a young quick who has impressed in domestic tournaments with his raw pace and accuracy. Another significant update is the inclusion of Asitha Fernando, who replaces Madushanka and adds an element of control and discipline to the pace unit.
In the batting department, Pathum Nissanka remains the mainstay at the top, supported by Kusal Mendis and Sadeera Samarawickrama—two of Sri Lanka’s most technically polished white-ball batters. Kamil Mishara and Lahiru Udara offer depth and versatility, while Kamindu Mendis continues to grow as a dependable middle-order option.
Spin Department Dominates
With Pakistani pitches expected to assist spin, Sri Lanka have leaned heavily on their proven performers. Wanindu Hasaranga returns to the ODI fold, offering attacking leg spin and useful lower-order power-hitting. Maheesh Theekshana provides control through the middle overs, while Jeffrey Vandersay adds variety as a wrist-spinner. This strong spin unit could play a decisive role, particularly in Rawalpindi and Karachi, where day-night ODI conditions often assist slow bowlers.
T20I Squad Ready for High Tempo Cricket
The T20I squad carries a more aggressive flavour as Sri Lanka prepare for the T20 tri-series. The inclusion of big hitter Bhanuka Rajapaksa marks his return to international cricket, offering firepower in the middle order. Kusal Perera also strengthens the top order with his explosive starts.
T20I Squad:
Pathum Nissanka, Kusal Mendis, Kusal Perera, Kamil Mishara, Charith Asalanka (c), Dasun Shanaka (vc), Kamindu Mendis, Bhanuka Rajapaksa, Janith Liyanage, Wanindu Hasaranga, Maheesh Theekshana, Dushan Hemantha, Dushmantha Chameera, Nuwan Thushara, Asitha Fernando, Eshan Malinga.
A notable absence is Matheesha Pathirana, who was ruled out due to an upper respiratory tract infection. His replacement, Asitha Fernando, adds reliability, but Sri Lanka will miss Pathirana’s slingy, high-pace yorkers that are tailor-made for T20 death overs. Nuwan Thushara, however, fills part of that void with a similar unorthodox action and wicket-taking ability.
Middle-Order Stability and Finishing Power
The middle order of the T20I squad is particularly flexible. Dasun Shanaka offers finishing capabilities, while Janith Liyanage and Kamindu Mendis bring calmness and adaptability. Wanindu Hasaranga’s all-round skill set makes him indispensable, especially in the T20 format.
Pace Battery for T20Is
Sri Lanka’s T20 pace attack features variety—Chameera’s classical fast bowling, Thushara’s skiddy action, and the emerging talent of Eshan Malinga. This assortment allows Sri Lanka to adapt to pitch conditions in Pakistan, which typically offer assistance under lights.
Tournament Importance
The Pakistan tour holds immense value not only for ranking points but also for preparation ahead of global ICC events. The tri-series format ensures Sri Lanka get several high-pressure T20 outings, ideal for testing combinations and assessing fringe players.
Conclusion
Sri Lanka enter the Pakistan tour with balanced, well-structured squads that reflect a clear strategic direction. The mix of youth and experience, combined with strong spin options and versatile batting groups, gives the team the tools needed to compete strongly. With several exciting names returning and new faces eager to make an impact, the series promises to be a pivotal chapter in Sri Lanka’s white-ball development.
