KHURRAM SHEHZAD AWAN :

Pakistan and Sri Lanka meet in a three-match ODI series from 11–15 November at Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium, renewing one of Asia’s longest white-ball rivalries.

Pakistan lead the all-time ODI head-to-head 93–59, including a 2–0 home win in 2019. Both teams enter the series closely ranked, with Sri Lanka at No. 4 and Pakistan at No. 5 in the latest ICC ODI standings.

Pakistan, led by Shaheen Shah Afridi, rely on the experience of Babar Azam, Mohammad Rizwan, and a full-strength pace trio of Shaheen, Naseem Shah, and Haris Rauf.
Sri Lanka, captained by Charith Asalanka, bring quality spin through Wanindu Hasaranga and Maheesh Theekshana, though injuries to Dilshan Madushanka and Matheesha Pathirana reduce their pace depth.

Rawalpindi’s recent ODI record suggests balanced batting conditions with evening dew likely to aid chasing sides.

Key contest: Pakistan’s top order (Babar–Rizwan) versus Sri Lanka’s spin duo (Hasaranga–Theekshana) is expected to define middle-overs control. Pakistan’s new-ball attack against Pathum Nissanka will also shape early momentum.

Prediction: Pakistan hold the home advantage and greater depth across departments. A competitive series is expected, but Pakistan are favoured 2–1.

Fixtures:
11 Nov – 1st ODI
13 Nov – 2nd ODI
15 Nov – 3rd ODI