Mendis takes over after Dhananjaya de Silva stepped down as Test captain. Experienced batter Dinesh Chandimal also returns to the squad. He missed part of the recent series against India after suffering a concussion in the first Test in Galle. Pathum Nissanka has also earned selection, but he must pass a fitness test before travelling to Pakistan.
Sri Lanka have dropped openers Lahiru Udara and Kamil Mishara, along with all-rounder Sahan Arachchige. Wicketkeeper Niroshan Dickwella has also missed out. The spin attack includes Prabath Jayasuriya and Keshara Nuwantha. All-rounder Sonal Dinusha has secured his place after an impressive series against India.
The pace attack features Milan Rathnayake, Lahiru Kumara, Asitha Fernando, Madushanka and Malinga. However, the selectors have left Vishwa Fernando out of the squad. Sri Lanka will hope their pace options can challenge Pakistan’s batters throughout the two-Test series.
Before the Tests, Sri Lanka will compete in an ODI tri-series against Pakistan and England. The matches will take place in Rawalpindi and Lahore from October 18 to 31. The team will then play a three-day warm-up match in Islamabad from November 4 to 6. The first Test will begin at Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium on November 9 and run until November 13.
The second Test will take place at Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore from November 17 to 21. The series forms part of the ICC World Test Championship 2025–27. Pakistan currently lead the three-match T20I series against Sri Lanka 2-0 ahead of the final game. The upcoming tour will test Mendis in his new leadership role. It will also give Malinga and Bandara a valuable chance to prove themselves at the highest level of international cricket.
