Sri Lanka’s preparations for next month’s Test series against Pakistan include an unresolved fitness question, with opening batter Pathum Nissanka’s participation subject to medical clearance.
Sri Lanka Cricket named Nissanka in the 15-member squad announced on October 13 but stated that he would travel with the team only if declared medically fit.
The two-match series, part of the ICC World Test Championship 2025–2027 cycle, is scheduled to begin on November 9 in Rawalpindi.
Conditional selection for Nissanka
Nissanka is included among the selected players, although the accompanying qualification makes his place in the travelling squad dependent on a medical assessment.
The selection announcement does not specify the medical condition involved, provide a recovery timetable or identify a replacement in the event that he is unable to travel.
His availability therefore remains an issue for the selectors ahead of the series.
Pasindu Sooriyabandara, Dinesh Chandimal, Kamindu Mendis, Sonal Dinusha and captain Kusal Mendis are also among the batting options named in the squad.
Kusal Mendis begins new Test captaincy
The Pakistan series will be an early assignment for Kusal Mendis following his appointment as Sri Lanka’s Test captain on October 8.
The leadership change followed Dhananjaya de Silva’s decision to step down from the captaincy. De Silva remains in the squad selected for Pakistan.
The selectors have also included Prabath Jayasuriya, Milan Rathnayaka, Lahiru Kumara, Asitha Fernando, Dilshan Madushanka and Eshan Malinga among the bowling options.
- Pathum Nissanka*
- Pasindu Sooriyabandara
- Dinesh Chandimal
- Kamindu Mendis
- Sonal Dinusha
- Kusal Mendis (Captain)
- Dhananjaya de Silva
- Anjala Bandara
- Keshara Nuwantha
- Prabath Jayasuriya
- Milan Rathnayaka
- Lahiru Kumara
- Asitha Fernando
- Dilshan Madushanka
- Eshan Malinga
*Subject to medical clearance before travelling, according to Sri Lanka Cricket.
World Test Championship points at stake
The two Tests form part of the current World Test Championship cycle, giving both teams an opportunity to improve their positions through the results of the series.
For Sri Lanka, the tour also provides an early test of the new captaincy arrangement after Dhananjaya de Silva’s departure from the leadership role.
The immediate selection uncertainty concerns Nissanka. Sri Lanka Cricket’s October 13 announcement gives no date for a final decision on his fitness or travel.
