Colombo: Sri Lanka has unveiled a 15-player squad for their forthcoming two-match Test series against Pakistan, part of the ICC World Test Championship cycle. The team will visit Pakistan for matches in Rawalpindi and Lahore commencing on November 9.
According to International Cricket Council, Kusal Mendis will lead the team as captain, following his recent appointment. Pathum Nissanka, a seasoned batter, is included in the squad contingent upon his recovery from a wrist injury that sidelined him during Sri Lanka's tour of India in August. Nissanka's absence was notable as Sri Lanka faced a 1-0 series defeat in India.
Dilshan Madushanka makes a return to Sri Lanka’s Test squad, with Eshan Malinga and Anjala Bandara also receiving call-ups. Lahiru Udara and Niroshan Dickwella have not been included in the squad. Udara's exclusion comes despite his impressive 188-run performance against the West Indies in June. Currently, Sri Lanka ranks seventh in the World Test Championship standings, while Pakistan is positioned ninth.
The scheduled series will see the first Test played from November 9-13 in Rawalpindi, followed by the second Test from November 17-21 in Lahore.