The Pakistan vs Sri Lanka 2026 Test series has officially begun as part of the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) cycle. Both sides head into the two-match contest eager to turn things around after experiencing disappointing results in their recent red-ball campaigns.
Pakistan look to rebuild after England whitewash
The series marks an important rebuilding phase for both teams, with significant changes to their respective setups. Pakistan, led by Babar Azam on home soil, has opted for a major squad revamp following a disappointing 3-0 series whitewash against England. Looking to introduce fresh talent into the Test setup, the selectors have rewarded several promising domestic performers with their maiden call-ups, including Muhammad Tayyab Arif, Ali Shabbir, and Saqib Khan.
All-rounder Aamer Jamal has also earned a recall, adding further strength to the pace-bowling department. With several established players missing from the squad, Pakistan will rely on a relatively inexperienced group as they attempt to improve their position at the bottom of the WTC standings.
Kusal Mendis begins his Test captaincy journey
Sri Lanka, meanwhile, enters the series under new leadership, with wicketkeeper-batter Kusal Mendis taking charge of the Test side for the first time. The visitors will hope to carry forward the fighting spirit they displayed during their recent home campaign, which included a hard-fought draw against India.
Their bowling attack features a promising combination of pace and spin, with Asitha Fernando and Dilshan Madushanka leading the seam department, while Prabath Jayasuriya remains a key threat with his left-arm spin.
Much of the attention will also be on emerging batter Sonal Dinusha, who made headlines by registering back-to-back centuries against India. Young wicketkeeper Anjala Bandara is another player to watch, with the highly rated youngster potentially set to make his Test debut in the series.
PAK vs SL, Test series full schedule
| Date | Match details | Timings (IST, GMT and Local) |
|---|---|---|
| Monday, November 9, 2026 | 1st Test Pakistan vs Sri Lanka Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium, Rawalpindi | 10:00 AM IST / 4:30 AM GMT / 9:30 AM Local |
| Tuesday, November 17, 2026 | 2nd Test Pakistan vs Sri Lanka Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore | 10:00 AM IST / 4:30 AM GMT / 9:30 AM Local |
Also READ: Pakistan picks 3 uncapped players in 16-man squad for Sri Lanka Tests
Broadcast and Live Streaming details
- Pakistan: PTV Sports, A Sports, Tapmad and Tamasha
- Sri Lanka: PEO TV (The Papare 1 / 1 HD), Dialog ViU+ App
- USA and Canada: Willow TV (Sign up here)
- Australia: Fox Cricket and Kayo Sports
- UK and Ireland: TNT Sports
- India: Veto App
Also WATCH: Frustrated Babar Azam smashes his bat on the ground after disappointing show in Quaid-e-Azam Trophy
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