The Pakistan ODI Tri-Series 2026 has begun on October 18, bringing Pakistan, England, and Sri Lanka together for a competitive 50-over tournament. Scheduled to run until October 31, the competition offers all three teams an opportunity to experiment with their combinations, assess squad depth, and strengthen their strategies while building momentum for future international assignments.
The tournament will feature a double round-robin format, with each side facing the other two teams twice during the league stage. Following six league matches, the two teams with the highest points totals will qualify for the final to compete for the title. The matches will take place at two prominent Pakistani venues, with the opening phase hosted by Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium before the action moves to Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore for the remaining group-stage encounters and the final.
As the hosts, Pakistan will look to capitalise on familiar conditions and the strength of their well-rounded squad. Their batting lineup features established performers such as Babar Azam and Fakhar Zaman, while Shadab Khan and Salman Ali Agha provide valuable all-round capabilities. The team’s pace attack, comprising Shaheen Afridi, Naseem Shah, and Haris Rauf, could prove decisive, with Abrar Ahmed adding another dimension through his spin bowling.
England, captained by Harry Brook, will arrive with an adaptable squad combining youthful energy and international experience. The presence of Joe Root and Adil Rashid offers valuable expertise, while the all-round abilities of Sam Curran and Will Jacks give the side flexibility across different match situations. Despite the absence of several prominent players, England’s attacking batting philosophy and diverse bowling resources could make them a serious threat on subcontinental pitches.
Sri Lanka, meanwhile, will depend on the leadership and tactical awareness of skipper Kusal Mendis to navigate a challenging tournament. Their bowling attack features spin options such as Maheesh Theekshana and Dunith Wellalage, who could play influential roles on surfaces that assist slower bowlers. In the batting department, experienced campaigners Dasun Shanaka and Avishka Fernando will be expected to deliver crucial contributions. With a combination of spin-bowling variety, competitive batting, and tactical discipline, Sri Lanka will aim to challenge both opponents and secure a place in the final.
Pakistan ODI tri-series, Complete schedule
| Date | Match Details | Timings (IST, GMT and Local) |
|---|---|---|
| Sunday, October 18, 2026 | 1st Match Pakistan vs Sri Lanka Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium, Rawalpindi |
Toss: Sri Lanka opted to bowl |
| Tuesday, October 20, 2026 | 2nd Match Pakistan vs England Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium, Rawalpindi |
1:30 PM IST / 8:00 AM GMT / 1:00 PM Local |
| Thursday, October 22, 2026 | 3rd Match Sri Lanka vs England Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium, Rawalpindi |
1:30 PM IST / 8:00 AM GMT / 1:00 PM Local |
| Sunday, October 25, 2026 | 4th Match Pakistan vs England Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore |
1:30 PM IST / 8:00 AM GMT / 1:00 PM Local |
| Tuesday, October 27, 2026 | 5th Match Pakistan vs Sri Lanka Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore |
1:30 PM IST / 8:00 AM GMT / 1:00 PM Local |
| Thursday, October 29, 2026 | 6th Match Sri Lanka vs England Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore |
1:30 PM IST / 8:00 AM GMT / 1:00 PM Local |
| Saturday, October 31, 2026 | Final TBC vs TBC Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore |
1:30 PM IST / 8:00 AM GMT / 1:00 PM Local |
Also READ: Pathum Nissanka ruled out of Pakistan ODI tri-series; replacement announced
ODI Tri-Nation Series 2026: Broadcast & Live Streaming Details
- India: Sony Sports Network; Sony LIV
- Pakistan: A Sports, Tapmad
- United States and Canada: Willow TV (Sign up here)
- United Kingdom: Sky Sports Cricket
- Sri Lanka: Dialog ViU
