Sri Lanka joins England for high-octane ODI Tri-series in Pakistan
By Nawaz Gohar ; Pakistan is set to transform its upcoming home season into a cricketing spectacle, with sources confirming on Wednesday that Sri Lanka has officially agreed to participate in a high-profile One-day International (ODI) tri-series, alongside hosts Pakistan and England.
This marquee tournament, slated for October-November this year, represents a significant addition to the international calendar. While the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) had previously signaled their intent, the inclusion of the Sri Lankan team completes a competitive trio, promising an intense battle for regional dominance.
According to insiders, while the finer details regarding the official match schedule are currently being ironed out, stakeholders expect a finalized itinerary to be unveiled in the coming weeks.
The tri-series serves as the centerpiece of a comprehensive tour for Sri Lanka. Before the ODI tournament kicks off in October, the visitors are slated to engage in a three-match Twenty20 International (T20I) series. This white-ball focus will shift later in November, when Pakistan and Sri Lanka face off in a two-match Test series, a critical encounter forming part of the 2025–27 ICC World Test Championship cycle.
This structured format aligns with the Future Tours Programme (FTP), ensuring a diverse mix of formats that will test the depth and versatility of both squads.
The decision to host a tri-series reflects Pakistan’s recent success in managing and winning such competitions. The Men in Green have enjoyed a prolific run in multi-nation formats over the past year.
Last August, Pakistan triumphed in a series hosted by the Emirates Cricket Board, defeating Afghanistan in the final. They followed this success on home soil in November 2025, when they overcame Sri Lanka in a hard-fought final in Rawalpindi. These victories have instilled a renewed sense of confidence in the side, which they will look to carry into the upcoming season.
While the home season planning is in full swing, the immediate focus for the Pakistan squad remains the upcoming tour of Bangladesh. The team is currently preparing for a two-match Test series that is vital for their standing in the World Test Championship.
The opening Test is scheduled at the Sher-e-Bangla National Cricket Stadium in Dhaka (8–12 May), followed by the second clash at the Sylhet International Cricket Stadium (16–20 May).
Under the leadership of experienced top-order batter Shan Masood, the squad represents a blend of seasoned campaigners and emerging talent. The inclusion of five uncapped players—Abdullah Fazal, Amad Butt, Azan Awais, and Muhammad Ghazi Ghori—highlights the selectors’ intent to infuse fresh energy into the side as they prepare for a demanding and transformative year of cricket.
