Pakistan vs Sri Lanka ODI Match Preview – 11th November 2025

Venue: Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium, Rawalpindi
Time: 09:00 GMT
Series: Sri Lanka Tour of Pakistan 2025 – 1st of 3 ODIs

Match Overview

The 2025 edition of the Sri Lanka Tour of Pakistan kicks off with the first of three One Day Internationals (ODIs) on Tuesday, November 11, 2025, at the iconic Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium. Pakistan, led by their white-ball captain Shaheen Shah Afridi, will look to make a strong statement against a resurgent Sri Lankan side captained by Charith Asalanka.

The match promises to be an intriguing contest between two teams with contrasting styles and recent performances. Pakistan, with their aggressive brand of cricket and a potent pace attack, will aim to dominate, while Sri Lanka, known for their disciplined batting and world-class spin, will seek to frustrate the hosts and execute their game plan with precision.

Team Lineups and Key Players

Pakistan

• Captain: Shaheen Shah Afridi
• Key Players: Babar Azam, Faisal Akram, Mohammad Nawaz, Naseem Shah, Haseebullah Khan, Haris Rauf

Pakistan boasts a balanced squad with a strong batting core led by the ever-reliable Babar Azam, who is expected to provide the platform for the middle and lower order. The spin department, led by Mohammad Nawaz and Haseebullah Khan, offers variety and control, while the pace attack, featuring Shaheen Afridi, Haris Rauf, and Faisal Akram, is one of the most feared in world cricket.

Sri Lanka

• Captain: Charith Asalanka
• Key Players: Kusal Mendis, Pathum Nissanka, Wanindu Hasaranga, Maheesh Theekshana

Sri Lanka will rely on their experienced middle-order, with Kusal Mendis and Charith Asalanka expected to anchor the innings. Opening with Pathum Nissanka could be a key strategy, given his ability to score quickly and rotate the strike. The spin duo of Wanindu Hasaranga and Maheesh Theekshana will play a pivotal role, especially if the pitch offers assistance, while the pace bowlers will look to exploit any early opportunities.

Venue Insights: Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium

Rawalpindi has traditionally been a batting-friendly venue, with consistent bounce and pace offering a fair contest for both batters and bowlers. The overcast conditions in the region can sometimes assist spinners, but the generally flat nature of the pitch favors aggressive batting. The home side, with a strong support base, can expect a lively atmosphere that could influence the game's outcome.

Head-to-Head and Recent Form

Historically, Pakistan has held the upper hand in bilateral series against Sri Lanka, especially in home conditions. However, Sri Lanka’s recent performances in limited-overs cricket have been impressive, with their spin-heavy approach and aggressive batting earning them results in competitive conditions.

Pakistan will be eager to build momentum early in the series, especially with a T20I Tri-Series featuring Zimbabwe and Pakistan following the ODI series. A strong start could set the tone for the remainder of the campaign.

Prediction

This match is expected to be a closely contested affair. While Pakistan’s depth and pace advantage give them a slight edge, Sri Lanka’s spin prowess and disciplined batting could make them a tough opponent. The toss could play a significant role in determining the game’s trajectory.

Prediction:
Pakistan to win by 5-10 runs, depending on how the toss and pitch conditions unfold.

What to Watch Out For

• Babar Azam vs Sri Lanka’s spinners: The form of Pakistan’s captain could be the difference-maker.
• Wanindu Hasaranga's impact: His ability to dismantle batting lineups is a key threat to Pakistan’s middle order.
• Shaheen Afridi’s all-round contribution: If he can contribute with both bat and ball, Pakistan will be in a strong position.
• Weather and pitch conditions: The match could be affected if overcast skies or a slow pitch favor the spinners.

Final Thoughts

The opening ODI between Pakistan and Sri Lanka is a must-watch for cricket fans, promising a blend of power, precision, and tactical cricket. With both teams coming into the game with confidence and a strong squad, the match is set to deliver high-quality cricket and set the tone for the rest of the series.

Catch the action at 09:00 GMT on Tuesday, November 11, 2025, at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium.
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