Predicted Playing XI of Sri Lanka in first Test against Pakistan

Sri Lanka will begin their two-match Test series against Pakistan on November 9 at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium. The opening encounter will be an important assignment for the visitors as they look to collect valuable points in the ICC World Test Championship 2025–27 cycle.

Kusal Mendis will lead Sri Lanka in his first Test series as captain following Dhananjaya de Silva’s decision to step down from the role. The visitors have named a 15-member squad, with Lahiru Udara replacing the injured Pathum Nissanka. Udara’s inclusion gives the team an experienced option at the top of the order, having previously represented Sri Lanka in Test cricket.

Sri Lanka have a mixture of experienced campaigners and promising youngsters in their squad. Dinesh Chandimal, Kamindu Mendis and Dhananjaya de Silva will be central to their batting plans, while Prabath Jayasuriya and Asitha Fernando are expected to lead the bowling attack.

Here’s Sri Lanka’s Predicted XI against Pakistan:

Top-order: Lahiru Udara, Pasindu Sooriyabandara

Sri Lanka are expected to hand Lahiru Udara the opening role after Pathum Nissanka was ruled out of the series due to a hamstring injury. Udara has already represented the country in Test cricket and will be keen to make the most of this opportunity. His career-best 188 against the West Indies earlier in 2026 also makes him an interesting option at the top of the order.

Pasindu Sooriyabandara could partner him at the other end. The youngster has been included in the squad as a specialist batter and could be given the responsibility of providing a solid start. Pakistan’s pace attack will test the opening pair with the new ball, making their ability to negotiate the initial movement particularly important.

Middle-order: Dinesh Chandimal, Kamindu Mendis, Sonal Dinusha, Dhananjaya de Silva and Milan Rathnayaka

Dinesh Chandimal is expected to bat at No. 3. The experienced right-hander has been one of Sri Lanka’s most dependable Test batters and will have a crucial role in stabilising the innings. His experience in overseas conditions could prove particularly valuable against Pakistan’s bowling attack.

Kamindu Mendis is likely to follow at No. 4. His versatility and ability to play both pace and spin make him an important part of Sri Lanka’s batting unit. He can accelerate when required but is equally capable of building a long innings.

Kusal Mendis will probably bat at No. 5 while also taking responsibility behind the stumps. The new captain has considerable experience in international cricket and will be expected to lead from the front. His leadership will be closely watched as he begins a new chapter in Sri Lanka’s Test setup.

Dhananjaya de Silva, despite stepping down as captain, remains an important member of the side. He is likely to occupy the No. 6 position, providing valuable experience and an additional spin-bowling option. His presence will help maintain balance in the middle order.

Sonal Dinusha could feature at No. 7 as a spin-bowling all-rounder. His inclusion would give Sri Lanka another option to control the middle overs while contributing useful runs with the bat.

Milan Rathnayaka is another strong contender for the lower-middle order. His ability to contribute with both bat and ball could help Sri Lanka extend their batting depth. The team management may prefer him over another specialist bowler to maintain a balanced combination.

Bowlers: Prabath Jayasuriya, Asitha Fernando, Lahiru Kumara

Prabath Jayasuriya is expected to be Sri Lanka’s frontline spinner. His ability to generate turn and maintain pressure over long spells makes him a key player, particularly if the Rawalpindi surface begins to deteriorate.

Asitha Fernando and Lahiru Kumara are likely to lead the pace attack alongside Milan Rathnayaka. Asitha’s accuracy and ability to swing the ball could be useful with the new ball, while Kumara offers additional pace and aggression.

Sri Lanka also have Dilshan Madushanka and Eshan Malinga as pace-bowling alternatives. However, the experience of Asitha and Kumara could give them the edge for the opening Test.

Sri Lanka’s predicted playing XI

1. Lahiru Udara
2. Pasindu Sooriyabandara
3. Dinesh Chandimal
4. Kamindu Mendis
5. Kusal Mendis (C & WK)
6. Dhananjaya de Silva
7. Sonal Dinusha
8. Milan Rathnayaka
9. Asitha Fernando
10. Lahiru Kumara
11. Prabath Jayasuriya

Note: This is a predicted XI based on the announced squad and available team information. The confirmed playing XI will be announced at the toss.

Disclaimer: This Exclusive News is based on the author’s understanding, analysis, and instinct. As you review this information, consider the points mentioned and form your own conclusions.

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