Sri Lanka’s preparations for their upcoming two-Test series against Pakistan have been dealt a blow with the news that opening batter
Nissanka had originally been named in the 15-man touring party on the strict condition that he would only travel if he received medical clearance. However,
Lahiru Udara steps in as replacement
In response to the vacancy, Sri Lanka has called up Lahiru Udara to join the Test squad. Udara is already present in Pakistan, having been drafted into the ODI setup as a replacement for Nissanka earlier in the tour. The opener brings previous international experience to the side, having featured in five Test matches for his country to date.
Udara’s most notable performance in the format came during the series against the West Indies in Antigua, where he recorded a significant score of 188. He was also involved in the team’s most recent Test assignments against both the West Indies and India, providing the selectors with a familiar option to fill the void at the top of the order.
Leadership and squad context
The upcoming series, which is part of the ICC World Test Championship cycle, is set to commence on November 9. The two matches will be hosted in Rawalpindi and Lahore, serving as a vital opportunity for both nations to climb the championship standings. Currently, Sri Lanka sits in seventh place, while Pakistan occupies the ninth position.
The squad will be led by Kusal Mendis, who was appointed as captain earlier this month. The touring party features a blend of experience and fresh faces, with veterans such as Dinesh Chandimal, Dhananjaya de Silva, and Kamindu Mendis included. Additionally, the squad sees the return of Dilshan Madushanka, alongside call-ups for Eshan Malinga and Anjala Bandara. The full squad for the series includes Kusal Mendis (captain), 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, Eshan Malinga, and Lahiru Udara.
