Pakistan Set to Face Sri Lanka in First ODI of Three-Match Series
Pakistan is gearing up to take on Sri Lanka in the first One Day International (ODI) of the three-match series at Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium in Rawalpindi on Tuesday, November 11. This match promises to be an exciting clash between two competitive teams.
Pakistan’s Performance in ODIs
So far this year, Pakistan has played 14 ODIs, managing to secure victories in just four of those matches. However, they showed their potential in the recent home series against South Africa, where they won the three-match fixture by a 2-1 margin. Despite this, the team has decided to drop batter Hasan Nawaz from their upcoming ODI and T20I series later this month.
Sri Lanka’s Recent Form
On the other hand, Sri Lanka’s last 50-over matches were against Zimbabwe, where they emerged victorious in both games. The visiting team will be looking to continue their winning streak against Pakistan and showcase their best cricket in this series.
Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium — Pitch Report
The Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium is expected to offer a good batting surface, although the new ball might exhibit some swing in the initial overs. Dew could also play a role, particularly in the second innings. The toss-winning captain is likely to opt to bowl first.
Predicted Playing XIs
Pakistan
Fakhar Zaman, Saim Ayub, Babar Azam, Mohammad Rizwan (WK), Agha Salman, Hussain Talat, Mohammad Nawaz, Faheem Ashraf, Shaheen Afridi (C), Naseem Shah, Abrar Ahmed
Sri Lanka
Pathum Nissanka, Kusal Mendis (WK), Charith Asalanka (C), Janith Liyanage, Kamindu Mendis, Asitha Fernando, Wanindu Hasaranga, Dushmantha Chameera, Maheesh Theekshana, Jeffrey Vandersay, Pramod Madushan
Key Players to Watch
Probable Best Batter — Saim Ayub
Saim Ayub, who had a rough patch in the Asia Cup 2025, bounced back strongly in the ODI series against South Africa. With 169 runs in three innings at an average of 56.33 and a strike rate of 94.94, Ayub will be a player to watch in this match.
Probable Best Bowler — Wanindu Hasaranga
Sri Lanka’s Wanindu Hasaranga is expected to be a key player with the ball in the first ODI. The spinner, who was the team’s leading wicket-taker in the Asia Cup, will look to make an impact on the game.
Match Prediction
Based on analysis and instinct, the prediction for this match is that the team bowling first will have the upper hand. However, cricket is unpredictable, and anything can happen on the day of the match.
Overall, the Pakistan vs Sri Lanka ODI series promises to be an intense battle between two talented teams, and fans can expect thrilling cricket action at Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium.
