World · Sri Lanka Bureau
Sri Lanka elects to bat first in opening Pakistan T20I
Sri Lanka won the toss and opted to bat first in the opening Twenty20 International against Pakistan at Rawalpindi on Friday. The decision sets the tone for the first encounter of the bilateral series.
LSN Sri Lanka ·
Kusal Mendis led Sri Lanka to victory at the coin flip and chose first use of the Rawalpindi pitch for the opening T20I of the series against Pakistan.
Mendis will captain the touring side while also keeping wickets, with Lahiru Udara named as backup wicketkeeper. The Sri Lankan batting order features Kamil Mishara and Kamindu Mendis in the middle order, alongside Sahan Arachchige and all-rounder Dasun Shanaka. Dunith Wellalage provides spin-bowling options in the middle overs.
The bowling attack comprises pace bowlers Dushmantha Chameera and Eshan Malinga, with off-spinner Maheesh Theekshana and left-arm wrist-spinner Nuwan Thushara providing variety. Pakistan has named Sahibzada Farhan as captain for the hosts' campaign in the series.
The match represents the first T20I encounter between the two nations at this venue, with both sides looking to establish early momentum in what promises to be a competitive bilateral assignment.