Sri Lanka consider testing bench strength for today’s ODI
Despite several batters getting starts, Sri Lanka’s innings have repeatedly lacked the substance and authority needed to post match-winning totals. Across two games, they have managed just two half-centuries—courtesy of Wanindu Hasaranga and Janith Liyanage—while Pakistan have produced two centuries and three fifties, highlighting a telling gulf in conversion rates. The inability to build on foundations has left Sri Lanka in a tough spot, prompting the team management to consider fresh faces.
Pavan Rathnayake, Lahiru Udara, Eshan Malinga, Jeffrey Vandersay are all in the frame for selection today. Hasaranga, who has been Sri Lanka’s standout performer with both bat and ball, showed signs of discomfort with what appears to be a hamstring niggle during the second ODI. Should he be rested, Vandersay is the likeliest replacement, bringing variety to the spin department.
Sri Lanka’s bowling unit has also struggled to make inroads, claiming just seven wickets across the series. With even Hasaranga drawing a blank in the second ODI, pressure has mounted to shake up the attack. This could open the door for young seamer Eshan Malinga to earn an opportunity.