Sri Lanka Unveil Pakistan Test Squad Under Mendis

Sri Lanka Cricket has officially announced a 15-member squad for the upcoming two-match Test series against Pakistan, with newly appointed captain Kusal Mendis set to lead the national side in an important ICC World Test Championship assignment. The squad was announced on October 13, 2026, marking the beginning of a new leadership chapter following Dhananjaya de Silva's decision to step down from the Test captaincy. One of the notable selections is Anjala Bandara, who has earned his maiden call-up to Sri Lanka's Test squad. His inclusion provides an opportunity for a new player to establish himself at the highest level of international red-ball cricket. Another important selection consideration involves Pathum Nissanka, whose participation in the series remains subject to medical clearance. His availability will therefore depend on the outcome of the required medical assessment. Kusal Mendis was officially appointed as Sri Lanka's new Test captain on October 8, succeeding Dhananjaya de Silva, who had led the team since January 2024. The 31-year-old Mendis brings considerable international experience to the role, having represented Sri Lanka in 75 Test matches at the time of his appointment. De Silva stepped down after expressing his belief that the responsibility of leading the national Test team should pass to the next generation. He also confirmed that he remains available to represent Sri Lanka as a player. The upcoming Pakistan series will be Mendis' first assignment as Test captain and an important opportunity to establish his leadership approach in the longest format. The two-match series is part of the ICC World Test Championship 2025–2027 cycle, meaning both teams will be competing for valuable championship points. The first Test is scheduled to begin on November 9 at Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium, while the second Test is scheduled to start on November 17 in Lahore. For Sri Lanka, the tour represents an opportunity to strengthen their position in the World Test Championship and build momentum under new leadership. With a new captain, an emerging player receiving his first Test call-up, and important selection decisions ahead, Sri Lanka will enter the Pakistan series with plenty of attention on how their new-look Test setup performs.