The Pakistan vs Sri Lanka three-match ODI series kicks off with a high-stakes opener on 11 November 2025 at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium. Both teams are entering this series with distinct ambitions — Pakistan aiming to consolidate their home dominance, and Sri Lanka keen to assert themselves on foreign soil for the first bilateral ODI tour in Pakistan since 2019. The first match will not only set the tone for the series but could also be a benchmark for player form and team strategies leading into future tournaments. With a blend of experienced match-winners and promising young talent on both sides, fans can expect a tactical, high-intensity contest filled with moments of brilliance and momentum swings.
Live Streaming Info
Fans can watch Pak vs Sri live on Star Sports and Disney+ Hotstar (India), Ten Sports (Pakistan), Fox Sports (Australia), and Willow TV (USA). Match Start Time: 2:30 PM Local (AEDT) / 11:30 AM GMT / 5:30 PM IST
Team Analysis
Led by Shaheen Afridi, Pakistan boasts a well-balanced lineup. The batting order revolves around Babar Azam, with Fakhar Zaman and Saim Ayub providing explosive starts. The middle order, featuring Mohammad Rizwan, Salman Ali Agha, and Hussain Talat, can stabilize innings or accelerate in the death overs.
Pakistan’s bowling attack is a key strength. The pace trio of Shaheen Afridi, Naseem Shah, and Haris Rauf combines early breakthroughs, disciplined lines, and death-over variations. Spinners Shadab Khan and Mohammad Nawaz offer control, wicket-taking options, and handy lower-order batting. Success for Pakistan hinges on strong opening partnerships, tight middle-over bowling, and sharp fielding.
Captained by Kusal Mendis, Sri Lanka features a mix of youth and experience. Pathum Nissanka and Avishka Fernando are expected to provide stability and aggression at the top. The middle order — Mendis, Charith Asalanka, and Sadeera Samarawickrama — can rebuild under pressure or accelerate late.
Sri Lanka’s spin attack is their main weapon. Wanindu Hasaranga, Maheesh Theekshana, and Dunith Wellalage are likely to dominate on Rawalpindi’s pitch as it offers grip in later stages. Pace bowlers Dilshan Madushanka and Lahiru Kumara will focus on early movement and building pressure. Controlling the middle overs and executing under pressure will be crucial for Sri Lanka’s success.
Match Insights and Conclusion
Rawalpindi typically offers an even surface initially, with spinners likely to gain traction after the first 15 overs. Batters who rotate strike and find gaps efficiently will have an advantage. Dew could be a factor in the later stages, influencing the toss and team strategy. The team that adapts faster to spin and maintains pressure in the middle overs may gain a crucial edge.
The PAK vs SL 1st ODI 2025 promises to be a thrilling start to a competitive series. Pakistan will look to leverage their pace attack and batting depth, while Sri Lanka will depend on their spin trio and tactical flexibility. With experienced campaigners, exciting youngsters, and high stakes on both sides, the match is expected to deliver sharp captaincy decisions, momentum swings, and a gripping contest from the first ball. Cricket fans can anticipate a tactical, intense, and action-packed ODI to kick off the series.
