Sri Lanka announce 16-member squad for first test against Pakistan

Sri Lanka will host Pakistan for two test matches with first test starting from 16th July at Galle.

The Sri Lanka Cricket Selectors have announced the following squad for the first Test against Pakistan, which will be played from 16-20 July at the Galle International Stadium

Dimuth Karunaratne, who earlier this year in March announced he is willing to quit captaincy, will continue to lead the side. While, Dhananjaya De Silva will be the vice-captain.

The hosts, Sri Lanka have suffered a major blow ahead of the Test, as Asitha Fernando has been ruled out due to dengue fever. Left-arm seamer Dilshan Madushanka will replace Fernando in the squad.

Dilshan Madushanka Awaits Test Debut, Selected in Squad for Sri Lanka vs. Pakistan Series

Dilshan Madushanka will be eagerly anticipating his Test debut as he secures a spot in the 16-member squad for the upcoming series against Pakistan. The much-awaited series commences on July 16 and Madushanka's inclusion reflects the confidence placed in his abilities. Despite being just 22 years old, he has already made a name for himself in the world of limited-overs cricket. Notably, he emerged as the highest-priced player during the Lanka Premier League auction last month, demonstrating the recognition of his potential.

Sri Lanka Squad for First Test Against Pakistan

Dimuth Karunaratne (c), Nishan Madushka, Kusal Mendis, Angelo Mathews, Dinesh Chandimal, Dhananjaya De Silva (vc), Pathum Nissanka, Sadeera Samarawickrama, Kamindu Mendis, Ramesh Mendis, Prabath Jayasuriya, Praveen Jayawickrama, Kasun Rajitha, Dilshan Madushanka, Vishwa Fernando, Laksitha Manasinghe

Schedule of Pakistan's tour of Sri Lanka

First Test

Date: July 16-20, 2023

Venue: Galle International Cricket Stadium

Second Test

Date: July 24-28, 2023

Venue: Singhalese Sports Club, Colombo

Pakistan squad

Babar Azam (c), Mohammad Rizwan (vc & wk), Aamir Jamal, Abdullah Shafique, Abrar Ahmed, Hasan Ali, Imam-ul-Haq, Mohammad Huraira, Mohammad Nawaz, Naseem Shah, Noman Ali, Salman Ali Agha, Sarfaraz Ahmed (wk), Saud Shakeel, Shaheen Afridi and Shan Masood