Sri Lanka vs Pakistan 2023: SL vs PAK 1st Test Preview, Playing XI, Live Streaming Details & Updates

Sri Lanka take on Pakistan in the first Test of the series from July 16.

Published - 15 Jul 2023, 14:35 IST | Updated - 15 Jul 2023, 16:27 IST

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Sri Lanka and Pakistan are all set to face each other in a two-match Test series that is scheduled to begin on July 16, at the Galle International Stadium, in Galle. Hosting the Test series, Sri Lanka will hope for a positive outcome as they look to get off to a good start to the latest World Test Championship cycle.

Pakistan has had quite a long hiatus from Test cricket; the side last played a Test game back in December 2022, where they drew the series after two hard-fought games against New Zealand. The side has been in good form in limited overs, however, and it could be interesting to see how they convert their form in the longest format.

Sri Lanka, on the other hand, last played a Test match against Ireland in April for a two-match Test series. It is safe to say that they completely dominated Ireland across the two matches and put forth excellent performances to win both matches and clinch the series as well.

However, their clash against Pakistan will not be easy, as the visitors will boast some extraordinary players in their lineup, which could mean that the fans are in for some cracking matches in the series.

Pitch and conditions

The surface at the Galle International Stadium could be one that aids the batters and the spinners. The first half of the game could be dominated by the batters, with the spinners playing a big role towards the end of the proceedings. A big score in the first innings would be a must for the side if they were looking to win the game.

Probable Playing XI For SL vs PAK

Sri Lanka

Led by Dimuth Karunaratne, Sri Lanka will look to put in a strong performance in the first Test and establish their dominance early on. With a strong mix of batters and bowlers, it could be interesting to see what lineup the side goes with.

Probable Playing XI: Dimuth Karunaratne (c), Kusal Mendis, Angelo Mathews, Dinesh Chandimal, Dhananjaya de Silva, Sadeera Samarawickrama (wk), Ramesh Mendis, Prabath Jayasuriya, Praveen Jayawickrama, Dilshan Madushanka, Vishwa Fernando

Pakistan

Pakistan will be depending a lot on their star power to propel them to a win in foreign conditions. Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan could provide the side with a good start with the bat.

Probable Playing XI: Babar Azam (c), Mohammad Rizwan (vc & wk), Shan Masood, Abdullah Shafique, Abrar Ahmed, Imam-ul-Haq, Mohammad Nawaz, Naseem Shah, Noman Ali, Saud Shakeel, Shaheen Afridi