Sri Lanka will begin their three-match T20I series against Pakistan on October 9 at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium. The visitors will be hoping to start the tour on a positive note under newly appointed captain Kusal Mendis, who will lead a relatively fresh-looking squad in the shortest format.

The second and third T20Is will also be played at Rawalpindi on October 11 and 13, giving both teams an opportunity to assess their combinations ahead of the remainder of Sri Lanka’s multi-format tour of Pakistan.

Sri Lanka have named a 15-member squad for the series. However, they will be without two important players, Pathum Nissanka and Wanindu Hasaranga, with both ruled out due to injuries. The absence of Nissanka leaves a significant opening at the top of the order, while Hasaranga’s unavailability takes away one of Sri Lanka’s most experienced T20 all-rounders.

With several players competing for places, here is the predicted Sri Lanka playing XI for the first T20I against Pakistan.

1. Kamil Mishara

Kamil Mishara is likely to open the innings for Sri Lanka in the absence of Pathum Nissanka. The left-handed batter could be given the responsibility of setting the tone during the powerplay.

Mishara will need to be particularly watchful against Pakistan’s new-ball attack, which could feature Naseem Shah. At the same time, his ability to find boundaries early could provide Sri Lanka with the aggressive start they require.

2. Kusal Mendis (c & wk)

Kusal Mendis should open alongside Mishara while also taking responsibility for the wicketkeeping duties. The Sri Lankan captain enters the series with confidence after a productive tour of England.

Mendis scored 198 runs in three ODI innings against England, including a century in the second ODI. Although the upcoming assignment is in the T20I format, that recent run of form makes him one of Sri Lanka’s most important batters.

His experience will be crucial against a Pakistan attack featuring several exciting young bowlers.

3. Sineth Jayawardena

Sineth Jayawardena could slot into the No. 3 position and provide stability after the powerplay. The youngster is part of Sri Lanka’s current T20I squad and could be given an opportunity to establish himself at international level.

With Nissanka unavailable, Sri Lanka may look towards Jayawardena to play a flexible role depending on the match situation.

4. Kamindu Mendis

Kamindu Mendis is expected to bat in the middle order and provide Sri Lanka with valuable all-round ability.

His left-handed batting can add variety to the lineup, while his ability to contribute with the ball gives Kusal Mendis another tactical option. Against Pakistan’s combination of pace and spin, Kamindu’s ability to rotate the strike and build partnerships could prove important.

5. Sahan Arachchige

Sahan Arachchige could occupy the No. 5 position. He is another player who provides useful flexibility with both bat and ball.

Arachchige was part of Sri Lanka’s Asian Games contingent and is now included in the senior T20I squad. His ability to contribute in multiple departments could make him particularly valuable in a relatively inexperienced side.

6. Dasun Shanaka

Dasun Shanaka should provide experience in the lower middle order. The former Sri Lankan captain remains one of the team’s most accomplished T20 players and can change the momentum of an innings with his power-hitting.

His experience of playing in Pakistan could also be valuable, particularly if Sri Lanka find themselves needing a strong finish during the final overs.

7. Dunith Wellalage

Dunith Wellalage is likely to play as the frontline spin-bowling all-rounder. His left-arm orthodox spin could be especially useful against Pakistan’s right-handed-heavy batting order.

Wellalage also provides batting depth, allowing Sri Lanka to field a stronger bowling attack without leaving the lower order excessively exposed.

8. Maheesh Theekshana

Maheesh Theekshana should lead the spin attack. The mystery spinner is one of Sri Lanka’s most reliable T20 bowlers and can be particularly effective during the powerplay.

His ability to bowl economically while searching for wickets makes him a key weapon against Pakistan’s aggressive top order. Theekshana was also among the players who travelled with the first contingent to Pakistan ahead of the series.

9. Nuwan Thushara

Nuwan Thushara could be one of Sri Lanka’s primary death-bowling options. His slingy action and ability to produce yorkers make him difficult to line up when he gets his execution right.

Against Pakistan’s powerful lower middle order, Thushara’s performance during the final five overs could have a major influence on the contest.

10. Eshan Malinga

Eshan Malinga could partner Thushara in the pace attack. The youngster has been included in Sri Lanka’s 15-member squad and brings raw pace and wicket-taking potential.

His ability to generate bounce and attack the stumps could give Sri Lanka an important option alongside the variations of Thushara.

11. Dushmantha Chameera

Dushmantha Chameera could complete the XI if he receives the required fitness clearance. He is officially listed in the squad subject to fitness, making his availability an important selection factor ahead of the first game.

If fit, Chameera’s experience and pace should make him the preferred option to lead the attack with the new ball.

Predicted Sri Lanka Playing XI vs Pakistan