Eshan Malinga earns maiden Test call-up as Sri Lanka name squad for Pakistan tour

Sri Lanka have announced a 15-member squad for their two-Test tour of Pakistan in November, with several changes following their recent home series against India. Fast-bowler Eshan Malinga has received his maiden Test call-up, while wicketkeeper Anjala Bandara has also earned a place in the squad. Left-arm pacer Dilshan Madushanka returns to the setup, and Kusal Mendis will lead the side for the first time in a Test series since taking over the captaincy from Dhananjaya de Silva.

The upcoming series will be important for both teams in the ongoing World Test Championship (WTC) cycle. Sri Lanka will look to improve their position in the standings, while Pakistan will be eager to strengthen their campaign after a difficult start.

Eshan Malinga earns first Test call-up, Anjala Bandara rewarded

Malinga’s inclusion marks a significant step in his career after establishing himself as a regular option in Sri Lanka’s shorter-format teams. Although he has yet to make his Test debut, the 24-year-old has accumulated valuable experience in first-class cricket, claiming 44 wickets in 19 matches at an average of 31.15.

His selection adds another pace option to Sri Lanka’s bowling attack as they prepare for challenging conditions in Pakistan. Madushanka’s return further strengthens the fast-bowling resources available to the selectors.

Bandara, meanwhile, has earned his maiden opportunity with the national Test squad on the back of impressive first-class performances. The 22-year-old averages 65.85 after 31 matches, having registered seven centuries and seven half-centuries. His highest score of 200 not out highlights his ability to produce substantial innings, making him an interesting addition to the squad.

Bandara replaces Niroshan Dickwella, who featured in the selection plans for Sri Lanka’s home Tests against India in August but has been omitted for the Pakistan tour.

Kusal Mendis takes charge as Sri Lanka make multiple changes

Mendis will begin his tenure as Test captain during the two-match series after Dhananjaya stepped down from the role. The squad also welcomes back Dinesh Chandimal, who missed part of the previous Test assignment after being substituted during the opening match in Galle because of concussion.

However, Sri Lanka have made several changes to their batting options. Openers Lahiru Udara and Kamil Mishara, both involved in the second Test against India in Colombo, have been dropped. All-rounder Sahan Arachchige has also missed out after receiving an opportunity for that match.

Pathum Nissanka‘s inclusion remains conditional on medical clearance. The batter will travel with the team only if he is declared fit, leaving some uncertainty over Sri Lanka’s opening options ahead of the first Test.

The bowling department features Prabath Jayasuriya and Keshara Nuwantha as the frontline spin choices, supported by all-rounder Sonal Dinusha. Dinusha’s impressive performances during the India series have strengthened his position in the squad.

Milan Rathnayake, Lahiru Kumara and Asitha Fernando complete the pace options alongside Malinga and Madushanka. Vishwa Fernando, however, has been left out.

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Sri Lanka face crucial WTC Tests against Pakistan

The series will begin in Rawalpindi, with the first Test scheduled for November 9-13. The teams will then move to Lahore for the second match, which will take place from November 17-21. Sri Lanka currently occupy seventh place in the World Test Championship standings with a points percentage (PCT) of 33.33. Pakistan sit at the bottom with a PCT of 4.63, making the two matches important for both sides as they seek to improve their positions.

Sri Lanka’s combination of experienced campaigners, returning players and fresh selections reflects the selectors’ attempt to strengthen the squad. Malinga and Bandara will have an opportunity to make their mark if selected in the playing XI, while Mendis faces his first Test series as captain.

Sri Lanka squad for Pakistan Tests: Kusal Mendis (captain), Pathum Nissanka (subject to fitness), Pasindu Sooriyabandara, Dinesh Chandimal, Kamindu Mendis, Sonal Dinusha, Dhananjaya de Silva, Anjala Bandara, Keshara Nuwantha, Prabath Jayasuriya, Milan Rathnayake, Lahiru Kumara, Asitha Fernando, Dilshan Madushanka and Eshan Malinga

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