Sri Lanka Name Two Uncapped Players in Squad for Pakistan Tests, Kusal Mendis to Captain

Sri Lanka have named fast bowler Eshan Malinga and wicketkeeper Anjala Bandara in their squad for the two-Test tour of Pakistan in November, handing both players their maiden Test call-ups. Kusal Mendis will lead the side in his first series as Test captain after Dhananjaya de Silva stepped down from the role. Left-arm pacer Dilshan Madushanka has been recalled, and the series is part of the ICC World Test Championship 2025-27.

Who Is In and Out

• Eshan Malinga: Established in Sri Lanka’s limited-overs teams, he earns his Test call-up after taking 44 wickets in 19 first-class matches at an average of 31.15.

• Anjala Bandara: The 22-year-old wicketkeeper averages 65.85 in 31 first-class matches, with seven centuries, seven half-centuries and a highest score of an unbeaten 200. He replaces Niroshan Dickwella.

• Dinesh Chandimal returns to the squad.

• Pathum Nissanka is named subject to fitness clearance and will travel only if declared fit.

• Openers Lahiru Udara and Kamil Mishara, all-rounder Sahan Arachchige and pacer Vishwa Fernando have been left out.

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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