SRH Star Named in Sri Lanka Test Squad for Pakistan Series – Check Full Squad

Sunrisers Hyderabad pacer Eshan Malinga has earned his maiden Test call-up as Sri Lanka announced their squad for the two-match series against Pakistan, starting on November 9. His inclusion is among several changes, with wicketkeeper-batter Anjala Bandara also getting an opportunity and Dilshan Madushanka returning to the side.

Niroshan Dickwella, Lahiru Udara, Kamil Mishara and Sahan Arachchige have been left out. The series will also mark Kusal Mendis’ first assignment as Sri Lanka’s Test captain following Dhananjaya de Silva’s departure from the role.

Eshan Malinga Gets His First Test Opportunity

Malinga’s selection is another important step in his career after his impressive performances for SRH in the IPL over the past two seasons. Having already received opportunities in ODIs and T20Is, the fast bowler now has a chance to establish himself in the longest format.

His performances for Sri Lanka have not yet consistently matched the impact he has made in the IPL. However, his inclusion suggests the selectors are willing to back him beyond white-ball cricket.

Malinga has taken 44 wickets in 19 first-class matches at an average of 31.15. He joins a pace group that includes the recalled Madushanka, Asitha Fernando, Lahiru Kumara and Milan Rathnayake.

Anjala Bandara Replaces Niroshan Dickwella

Sri Lanka have made a notable change in their wicketkeeping options by selecting Anjala Bandara in place of Dickwella. The youngster arrives with a strong first-class batting record and an opportunity to take the next step.

Bandara averages 65.85 after 31 first-class matches, with an unbeaten double-century among his performances. His numbers offer a clear explanation for the selectors’ decision to bring him into the Test setup.

Anjala Bandara’s first-class batting record at the time of selection:

His selection gives Sri Lanka a fresh wicketkeeper-batting option, while Dickwella loses his place after returning to the squad for the home series against India.

Sri Lanka Leave Out Udara, Mishara and Arachchige

The changes extend beyond the wicketkeeping position. Lahiru Udara and Kamil Mishara have both been dropped, forcing Sri Lanka to reconsider their opening combination.

Sahan Arachchige has also been omitted after being called up during the India series without getting a game. His exclusion means that opportunity ended before he could make a case through a Test performance.

Left-arm seamer Vishwa Fernando is another omission, with Madushanka returning and Malinga entering the Test squad.

Sri Lanka Test Squad for Pakistan Series

Kusal Mendis (captain), Pathum Nissanka*, Pasindu Sooriyabandara, Dinesh Chandimal, Kamindu Mendis, Sonal Dinusha, Dhananjaya de Silva, Anjala Bandara, Keshara Nuwantha, Prabath Jayasuriya, Milan Rathnayake, Lahiru Kumara, Asitha Fernando, Dilshan Madushanka and Eshan Malinga.

Pathum Nissanka’s participation is subject to medical clearance.

Pakistan vs Sri Lanka Test Series Schedule

Both matches form part of the ICC World Test Championship 2025–27 cycle.