Pathum Nissanka’s anticipated return to the red-ball fold provides a downtrodden Sri Lanka with a timely and much-needed boost, while potential debuts are also on the horizon for young wicketkeeper Anjala Bandara and express seamer Eshan Malinga. The trio has been officially named in Sri Lanka’s 15-man squad for the upcoming and highly anticipated two-Test series against Pakistan, signaling a strategic blend of experienced campaigners and emerging domestic talent as the team looks to turn a corner in the longest format of the game.
The headline inclusion of Nissanka injects proven international pedigree back into the top order. Nissanka, who last featured in a Test match during June against the West Indies—highlighted by a memorable maiden home Test century against Bangladesh in Galle—brings stability, fluency, and technical reassurance to a batting unit that has endured fluctuating fortunes over recent months. His ability to anchor innings and accelerate when required makes his presence a significant asset for the touring side as they prepare for the challenging conditions traditionally offered in Pakistan.
Alongside Nissanka, the squad features fresh horizons, most notably for 22-year-old wicketkeeper Anjala Bandara. Bandara is heavily tipped to break into the starting playing XI following the recent leadership changes that saw Kusal Mendis promoted to the Test captaincy. With Mendis shouldering the responsibilities of leading the side, the longtime keeper is now expected to feature strictly as a specialist batter, clearing the path for Bandara to take over behind the stumps and test his mettle at the international level.
Bandara’s elevation is the result of overwhelming weight of runs in domestic cricket. Ever since making his first-class debut in 2022, the Colombo Cricket Club gloveman has carved out an impressive reputation as a player of genuine promise. Across 31 first-class matches, Bandara has amassed 2,239 runs at an astonishing average of 65.85. His consistent performances had previously sparked a loud clamour among fans and pundits for his inclusion during the recent series against India, though selectors ultimately opted for veteran options on that occasion. Now, the stage appears set for the young keeper to showcase his talents on the grandest stage.
While Bandara is widely expected to walk straight into the starting XI, the inclusion of young seamer Eshan Malinga comes with a degree of uncertainty regarding immediate selection. Malinga finds himself competing within a pace-bowling contingent that features established names such as Asitha Fernando, Lahiru Kumara, Milan Rathnayaka, and Dilshan Madushanka. Madushanka notably returns to the national fold after having been omitted from the squad named for the second Test against India. Meanwhile, veteran batsman Dinesh Chandimal, who was forced to miss the second India Test due to an injury, successfully returns to the 15-man traveling party, further bolstering the batting depth.
Malinga’s inclusion addresses a glaring strategic need for Sri Lanka, whose red-ball fast-bowling stocks have experienced a noticeable dip in recent times. Former skipper and incumbent squad member Dhananjaya de Silva had been remarkably vocal during the recent India tour regarding the team’s pressing need to inject genuine express pace into the playing XI. Aside from Lahiru Kumara—who consistently clocks speeds in the brisk 140kph range—most of Sri Lanka’s traditional pace options tend to hover around the low 130s. Malinga, however, possesses the physical attributes and bowling action capable of matching Kumara on the speed gun. This capability of generating genuine extra pace makes him an enticing option for the team management, potentially pointing toward a first Test cap if conditions and team balance allow for an aggressive pace-heavy approach.
The remainder of the squad selection pans out largely along expected lines, striking a balance between youth and seasoned experience. Pasindu Sooriyabandara, who earned his maiden Test cap earlier this year during the series against India, has successfully retained his place in the squad, edging out the more experienced Lahiru Udara. Sooriyabandara’s retention underscores the selection panel’s faith in the younger generation of domestic performers.
However, team composition will present interesting tactical dilemmas for the management. If Bandara assumes wicketkeeping duties as anticipated, and with established anchors like Chandimal, Kamindu Mendis, Sonal Dinusha, and captain Kusal Mendis virtually assured of their spots in the playing XI, senior all-rounder Dhananjaya de Silva could potentially find himself as the odd man out depending on the final balance between batters and bowlers. In the slow-bowling department, Sri Lanka has opted for stability and proven wicket-taking ability, naming the dependable spin duo of Prabath Jayasuriya and Keshara Nuwantha to handle the slow-pitch requirements.
The two-Test series is scheduled to begin with the opening match taking place in Rawalpindi on November 9, giving the squad adequate time to acclimatize and finalize their tactical preparations for the challenge ahead.
Sri Lanka Squad for Pakistan Tests:
Pathum Nissanka, Pasindu Sooriyabandara, Dinesh Chandimal, Kamindu Mendis, Sonal Dinusha, Kusal Mendis (capt), Dhananjaya de Silva, Anjala Bandara, Keshara Nuwantha, Prabath Jayasuriya, Milan Rathnayaka, Lahiru Kumara, Asitha Fernando, Dilshan Madushanka, Eshan Malinga
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