Photo via The Times of India

Sri Lanka name new captain for Pak Tests! Ex-skipper de Silva retained in squad

Sri Lanka has appointed Kusal Mendis as their new Test captain ahead of their two-match series against Pakistan in the ICC World Test Championship. Mendis, who currently leads the team in ODIs and T20Is, will take over from Dhananjaya de Silva, who stepped down from the role to pass leadership to a younger player.

The series, set to begin on November 9, will be Mendis’ first as Test captain, with Rawalpindi and Lahore hosting the matches as Sri Lanka aims to climb the WTC standings after a recent home series loss to India and Pakistan struggles at the bottom of the table following a 0-3 defeat to England.

The 15-man squad includes Pathum Nissanka, subject to fitness after a hamstring injury, and a recall for left-arm fast bowler Dilshan Madushanka. Uncapped wicketkeeper-batter Anjala Bandara, who has excelled in first-class cricket with seven centuries in 46 innings, also earns his spot.

Openers Lahiru Udara and Niroshan Dickwella were omitted, while Eshan Malinga and Asitha Fernando round out the bowling attack. Sri Lanka, currently seventh in the WTC, will look to bounce back after a challenging year, while Pakistan seeks to reverse their recent form in the championship cycle.

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