Dambulla: Pakistan is gearing up to face Sri Lanka in a three-match T20 International series in Dambulla, with matches set for January 7, 9, and 11. This series serves as crucial preparation for the upcoming ICC Men’s T20 World Cup, scheduled to take place in India and Sri Lanka from February 7 to March 8. The matches are slated to begin at 7 p.m. local time.
The series will play a pivotal role in helping Pakistan’s national selection committee finalize the team’s 15-member squad for the World Cup. Since Pakistan will play all its World Cup matches in Sri Lanka, this bilateral series is an essential opportunity for the team to adapt to local conditions and refine their team combinations.
Salman Ali Agha will continue to lead the T20I side. Under his captaincy, Pakistan achieved victories in two tri-series tournaments and bilateral series against Bangladesh, West Indies, and South Africa in 2025. The upcoming series against Sri Lanka will not only test Pakistan’s mettle but also provide players the chance to secure their places in the World Cup squad through commendable performances.
Pakistan has a favorable recent record against Sri Lanka, winning three of their last five T20Is, including crucial victories in the ACC Men’s T20 Asia Cup knockout match in Dubai and the tri-series final in Rawalpindi.
Speaking at a pre-series press conference, Salman Ali Agha emphasized the importance of the series. “The series provides a great opportunity for everyone to perform. Playing here ahead of the World Cup is a significant advantage for us, and we will look to acclimatize to the conditions as quickly as possible,” he said. He also expressed confidence in the squad’s potential, noting the presence of promising future prospects.
The 15-member squad announced for the series includes: Salman Ali Agha (captain), Abdul Samad, Abrar Ahmad, Faheem Ashraf, Fakhar Zaman, Khawaja Nafay (wk), Mohammad Nawaz, Mohammad Salman Mirza, Mohammad Wasim Jr., Naseem Shah, Sahibzada Farhan (wk), Saim Ayub, Shadab Khan, Usman Khan (wk), and Usman Tariq.
The series is anticipated to be a high-stakes affair for both teams as they prepare for the global tournament, with the Pakistan Cricket Board keen on leveraging this opportunity to ensure optimal performance in the World Cup.