Sri Lanka has announced its squad for the upcoming two Test matches against Pakistan in November. The team has given maiden call ups to fast bowler Eshan Malinga and wicketkeeper Anjala Bandara. Left arm pacer Dilshan Madushanka has also been recalled to the side.
Anjala Bandara takes the place of Niroshan Dickwella. Dickwella was brought back for the home series against India in August but has now been left out. Kusal Mendis will captain the side in his first series as Test leader after Dhananjaya de Silva stepped down from the role.
Eshan Malinga has already made a name for himself in limited overs cricket. He has taken 44 wickets in 19 first class matches at an average of 31.15 and now gets his first chance in the longest format. The 22 year old Bandara has earned his place with a strong first class record. He averages 65.85 from 31 matches and has scored seven centuries and seven half centuries with a highest score of 200 not out.
Openers Lahiru Udara and Kamil Mishara who played in the second Test against India have been dropped. All rounder Sahan Arachchige has also been left out. Experienced batter Dinesh Chandimal returns to the squad after missing the first Test in Galle due to concussion. Pathum Nissanka is included subject to fitness and will only travel if he is fully fit.
The spin department will be led by Prabath Jayasuriya and Keshara Nuwantha. All rounder Sonal Dinusha is also in the squad after a good series against India. The pace attack includes Milan Rathnayake, Lahiru Kumara, Asitha Fernando, Madushanka and Malinga. Vishwa Fernando has been omitted.
Pakistan currently leads the ongoing three match T20I series 2 0. After the T20Is, Sri Lanka will take part in an ODI tri series with Pakistan and England in Rawalpindi and Lahore from 18 to 31 October. A three day warm up match in Islamabad will follow from 4 to 6 November before the Tests begin.
The first Test will be held at Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium from 9 to 13 November. The second Test will take place at Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore from 17 to 21 November. Both matches form part of the ICC World Test Championship 2025 27 cycle.
