The Men’s One Day International Series continues with an intriguing clash as Pakistan host Sri Lanka at the historic Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium, Rawalpindi on 13th November. The match is scheduled to start at 10:00 IST (converted from the UK start time of 04:30). With both teams keen to fine-tune their lineups ahead of major international events, this encounter promises a fascinating contest of skill, temperament, and tactical nous in subcontinental conditions.
Form Guide
Pakistan
Pakistan enter this fixture in strong limited-overs form, having displayed consistency across departments in recent outings. Their top order has been prolific, while the bowling attack continues to be one of the most potent in world cricket. Playing in Rawalpindi, where pace and spin can both play a role, Pakistan will aim to assert dominance early and build towards another home series victory. Their combination of power hitters and tactical bowlers gives them a balanced look heading into this matchup.
- Top order in superb form with consistent century partnerships.
- Seamers making effective use of home conditions with early breakthroughs.
- Spin duo providing control in the middle overs.
Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka arrive with determination and youthful energy, eager to test themselves against a formidable Pakistan side. While their recent ODI performances have been mixed, flashes of brilliance from their emerging batters and spinners have offered promise. Consistency remains the key area of focus. The challenge of adapting to Pakistan’s pace-friendly wickets will test their composure, but the visitors have enough firepower to compete if they play to their strengths.
- Young batters showing improvement with each series.
- Spinners likely to play a crucial role on subcontinental pitches.
- Need to improve strike rotation and death bowling execution.
Key Players
Pakistan
- Babar Azam – The captain and mainstay of Pakistan’s batting lineup, known for his elegant stroke play and consistency in all conditions.
- Imam-ul-Haq – Reliable top-order partner providing stability and solid contributions in partnerships with Babar.
- Shaheen Shah Afridi – Premier left-arm pacer capable of dismantling any batting order with pace, swing, and new-ball precision.
Sri Lanka
- Pathum Nissanka – Elegant opener who anchors innings and builds pressure-free partnerships.
- Charith Asalanka – Dynamic middle-order batter offering aggression and control during key overs.
- Wanindu Hasaranga – Star all-rounder whose leg-spin and lower-order hitting can swing matches in Sri Lanka’s favour.
Pitch and Weather Conditions
The Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium surface traditionally offers assistance to fast bowlers early in the match, with swing and seam movement available under clear skies. However, as the game progresses, batting becomes easier, and spinners may find grip in the latter stages. The outfield is quick, rewarding well-timed strokes. The weather is forecast to be bright and dry, around 28°C, ensuring perfect playing conditions. A first-innings total of around 290–310 should be highly competitive on this pitch.
Pakistan vs Sri Lanka – Prediction
This ODI is set to be a compelling battle of experience versus youthful exuberance. Babar Azam and Imam-ul-Haq are expected to lead Pakistan’s batting charge, while Shaheen Shah Afridi remains the key threat with the ball. Sri Lanka’s hopes rest on Pathum Nissanka’s composure and Wanindu Hasaranga’s all-round brilliance. While the visitors possess talent and energy, Pakistan’s superior balance, depth, and home advantage make them favourites to take the win in Rawalpindi.
Dream 11 Fantasy Picks
- Babar Azam – Top fantasy choice for consistent run-scoring and captaincy value in ODIs.
- Wanindu Hasaranga – Impactful all-rounder providing key fantasy returns through wickets and quick runs.
- Shaheen Shah Afridi – Strike bowler and powerplay weapon; strong fantasy pick for early wickets.
