The Pakistan men's national cricket team is set to launch its final phase of preparations for the upcoming ICC Men's T20 World Cup with a vital three-match T20 International series against Sri Lanka. The action will unfold at the Rangiri Dambulla International Stadium, with matches scheduled for January 7, 9, and 11. Each game is slated for a 7:00 PM local time start.
A Crucial Dress Rehearsal for the Global Event
This bilateral series carries immense weight as it serves as a key preparatory stage ahead of the mega event. The ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2025 will be co-hosted by India and Sri Lanka from February 7 to March 8. For Pakistan, this tour is particularly significant as the team is scheduled to play all its World Cup matches in Sri Lanka. The series provides a golden opportunity for the players to acclimatize to local conditions, understand pitch behavior, and fine-tune their strategies in the host nation.
Furthermore, the performances in Dambulla will play a pivotal role for the national selection committee. The series is a final audition for several players aiming to cement their spots in Pakistan's 15-member squad for the World Cup. Strong showings against a competitive Sri Lankan side could be the deciding factor for many.
Leadership and Recent Form
Salman Ali Agha will continue to captain the T20I side, building on a successful 2025 season. Under his leadership, Pakistan clinched two tri-series titles and secured bilateral T20I series victories against Bangladesh, West Indies, and South Africa. The team has demonstrated notable consistency and depth in white-ball cricket during his tenure.
Pakistan also enters the series with positive recent history against Sri Lanka in the T20 format. The Green Shirts have won three of their last five encounters against the islanders. These include critical victories in the knockout stage of the ACC Men's T20 Asia Cup in Dubai and the tri-series final held in Rawalpindi.
Captain's Perspective on the Challenge
Addressing the media in a pre-series press conference, Captain Salman Ali Agha underscored the tour's importance. "This series provides a great opportunity for everyone to perform," Salman stated. He emphasized the strategic advantage, noting, "Playing here ahead of the World Cup is a significant benefit for us, and we will look to adapt to the conditions as quickly as possible."
The skipper also highlighted the dual focus on immediate results and future development. "We have quality players in the squad who are future prospects. We want to give them opportunities, and I am hopeful they will deliver strong performances throughout the series," he added, signaling confidence in the team's blend of experience and youth.
Pakistan's 15-member T20I Squad for the series: Salman Ali Agha (captain), Abdul Samad, Abrar Ahmad, Faheem Ashraf, Fakhar Zaman, Khawaja Nafay (wicket-keeper), Mohammad Nawaz, Mohammad Salman Mirza, Mohammad Wasim Jnr, Naseem Shah, Sahibzada Farhan (wicket-keeper), Saim Ayub, Shadab Khan, Usman Khan (wicket-keeper), Usman Tariq.
