11/11/2025
A fresh chapter of subcontinental rivalry is set to unfold in Rawalpindi, where Pakistan and Sri Lanka lock horns in the first ODI of what promises to be a gripping three-match series. Pakistan come in high on confidence after a 2-1 triumph over South Africa at home, but not without concerns - Babar Azam’s lean patch continues as he has now gone 82 innings without an international century, while Mohammad Rizwan too has struggled for consistency. Yet, the form of Saim Ayub, Mohammad Nawaz, and Salman Agha offers reassurance, each having chipped in with crucial runs in recent outings. The pace trio of Shaheen Afridi, Haris Rauf, and Naseem Shah are back operating together, and their early breakthroughs could define Pakistan’s rhythm in the series. Adding to that, Abrar Ahmed’s spin threat gives the bowling attack a dangerous edge in the middle overs, while Faheem Ashraf’s ability to chip in with key wickets, along with handy runs down the order, and Hussain Talat’s explosive lower-order hitting add balance and depth to the side, making Pakistan a formidable outfit at home. For Sri Lanka, it’s a return to ODI cricket after nearly three months, and they’ll need to find their feet quickly in these conditions. Charith Asalanka’s leadership, along with Wanindu Hasaranga’s all-round brilliance, will be pivotal in shaping their fortunes. Pathum Nissanka, in sublime touch over the past couple of years, holds the key at the top, while Kusal and Kamindu Mendis add much-needed solidity in the middle order. The pace pairing of Asitha Fernando and Dushmantha Chameera brings control and aggression, and Maheesh Theekshana’s mystery spin could be the X-factor. Pakistan lead the overall head-to-head comfortably with 93 wins in 157 ODIs, including a 2-0 home series triumph when the Lankans last visited here in 2019, and the hosts will be eager to repeat history, while Sri Lanka will look to flip the script this time around. Whose side are you on?