Pathum Nissanka Ruled Out of Sri Lanka’s Test Series in Pakistan

Pathum Nissanka has been officially ruled out of Sri Lanka’s upcoming two-match Test series against Pakistan. The opener failed to regain medical fitness in time for the tour after sustaining a left hamstring injury during the white-ball series in England this past September. Although he was initially named in the 15-man squad, his inclusion remained conditional upon a medical evaluation that he ultimately did not pass. But a statement from Sri Lanka Cricket confirmed that he has failed to recover in time for the series, nissanka was named in the original 15-man squad but was due to travel only if declared medically fit.

This injury continues a frustrating period for the batter, who previously missed the home Test series against India in August due to a separate wrist issue. Following his setback in England, he was also forced to withdraw from the T20I leg of the current Pakistan tour and the ongoing ODI tri-series.

Lahiru Udara has been selected to take Nissanka’s place in the squad. Having already joined the group in Pakistan as a replacement for the ODI tri-series, Udara brings experience from his five previous Test appearances. Notably, he recorded a significant score of 188 against the West Indies in Antigua and has also competed in a series against India. Sri Lanka’s ru Kumara, Asitha Fernando, Dilshan Madushanka, Eshan Malinga, Lahiru Udara. Scoring 188 against the former in Antigua, he has played five Tests and featured in Sri Lanka’s two most recent assignments in the format – against West Indies and India.

The two-Test series, which contributes to the World Test Championship cycle, is scheduled to take place in Rawalpindi from November 9-13, followed by a second match in Lahore from November 17-21. This contest marks the team’s first format appearance under newly appointed captain Kusal Mendis.