Colombo: Sri Lanka has unveiled its squad for the upcoming T20I series against Pakistan, a vital preparatory step before the ICC Men's T20 World Cup, which begins on February 7. The series serves as an opportunity for the team to fine-tune combinations and gain momentum ahead of the global event.

The squad, captained by Dasun Shanaka, includes a mix of seasoned players and newcomers, some of whom were not part of the preliminary squad for the World Cup. This decision introduces competition for spots as the team assesses its options before finalizing the roster for the tournament.

The players selected for the series include Pathum Nissanka, Kamil Mishara, Kusal Mendis, Kusal Perera, and Dhananjaya de Silva, among others. With experienced bowlers like Wanindu Hasaranga and promising talents such as Maheesh Theekshana, the team aims to test its depth against a formidable Pakistani side.

The series holds significance as both Sri Lanka and Pakistan seek to refine their strategies ahead of the World Cup in India and Sri Lanka. The last encounter between the two teams saw Pakistan emerge victorious in the T20I tri-series final in Rawalpindi.

The series, comprising three matches, will take place in Dambulla, beginning with the first T20I on January 7. The subsequent matches are scheduled for January 9 and 11, offering both teams ample opportunity to assess their form and readiness for the upcoming international challenge.