Pathum Nissanka’s return to Test cricket comes as a welcome sign for Sri Lanka as they prepare for a two-Test series against Pakistan. Wicketkeeper Anjala Bandara and fast bowler Eshan Malinga are potential new faces in the 15-man squad, introducing fresh excitement into the ranks.
With Kusal Mendis now leading the team, Bandara is likely to step into the wicketkeeping role, leaving Mendis to focus on batting. Asitha Fernando, Lahiru Kumara, Milan Rathnayaka, and Dilshan Madushanka—who reenters after missing the second Test against India—are contenders for the fast-bowling positions, making Malinga’s inclusion uncertain. However, his ability to match Kumara’s speed, often hitting 140 kph, could earn him a Test debut.
Sri Lanka’s need for more fast-bowling options has become evident, especially after former captain Dhananjaya highlighted the current scarcity during the India tour. In contrast to Kumara, many bowlers only reach speeds around 130 kph. Malinga’s potential to exceed these speeds might be crucial for the team.
22-year-old Bandara has shown promise since his 2022 debut, amassing 2239 runs at an average of 65.85 in 31 first-class matches. Support among fans for his inclusion against India was strong, but the place went to Niroshan Dickwella instead.
As expected, Nissanka’s restoration is the spotlight of the squad. Pasindu Sooriyabandara, who debuted against India, retains his place over the experienced Lahiru Udara. If Bandara is assigned wicketkeeping duties, Dhananjaya might be the one to miss out, with key players like Chandimal, Kamindu Mendis, Sonal Dinusha, and captain Kusal Mendis likely securing spots. Spin options remain with Prabath Jayasuriya and Keshara Nuwantha.
The series kicks off in Rawalpindi on 9th November.
Sri Lanka Squad for the Pakistan Test Series:
Pathum Nissanka, Pasindu Sooriyabandara, Dinesh Chandimal, Kamindu Mendis, Sonal Dinusha, Kusal Mendis (captain), Dhananjaya De Silva, Anjala Bandara, Keshara Nuwantha, Prabath Jayasuriya, Milan Rathnayaka, Lahiru Kumara, Asitha Fernando, Dilshan Madushanka, Eshan Malinga.
