Pathum Nissanka Ruled Out of Pakistan Test Series as Lahiru Udara Gets Call-Up

Sri Lanka have suffered a setback ahead of their upcoming Test series against Pakistan, with opening batter Pathum Nissanka ruled out after failing to recover from a left hamstring injury. The injury has disrupted his availability across multiple assignments, and the selectors have now confirmed that he will miss both Tests in Pakistan.

Nissanka was initially included in Sri Lanka's 15-member Test squad on the condition that he would travel only after receiving medical clearance. However, he has not recovered sufficiently to return to action, forcing the team management to make a late change before the start of the series.

Wicketkeeper-batter Lahiru Udara has been named as Nissanka's replacement. Udara is already in Pakistan with the Sri Lankan squad for the ongoing ODI tri-series and is expected to join the Test group ahead of the opening match.

Hamstring Injury Extends Nissanka's Absence

Nissanka sustained the left hamstring injury during Sri Lanka's white-ball tour of England in September. The problem subsequently ruled him out of the T20I series against Pakistan and the ongoing ODI tri-series involving Pakistan, Sri Lanka and England.

His absence from the Tests represents another disappointment for the right-handed opener, who had also missed Sri Lanka's home Test series against India in August because of a wrist injury.

The latest setback means Sri Lanka will have to prepare for the Pakistan Tests without one of their established top-order batters. Nissanka's ability to score fluently and build partnerships at the top would have been valuable in a series that carries important World Test Championship points.

Sri Lanka Cricket has confirmed that Nissanka has not recovered in time. No specific return date has been announced, so his availability for future matches will depend on his rehabilitation and medical assessment.

Lahiru Udara Gets Another Opportunity

Lahiru Udara will replace Nissanka in the Test squad, giving the experienced domestic batter another opportunity to contribute at international level. He has already represented Sri Lanka in five Test matches and seven T20Is.

Udara featured in Sri Lanka's two most recent Test assignments against West Indies and India. He made a significant contribution during the series against West Indies, scoring 188 in Antigua and demonstrating his ability to build a long innings in the longest format.

He has also been part of Sri Lanka's white-ball plans during the current tour of Pakistan. His familiarity with the touring environment should help him prepare for the Test series, although his precise batting position will depend on the team's final selection.

Udara has yet to make his ODI debut, but his experience in first-class cricket and previous Test appearances make him a natural replacement option for the injured opener.

Sri Lanka Face a Challenging Test Assignment

The two-match series against Pakistan will be an important test for Sri Lanka as they continue their campaign in the 2025–27 World Test Championship. With the opening match scheduled for Rawalpindi, the visitors will need to adapt quickly to conditions and build partnerships against Pakistan's bowling attack.

The absence of Nissanka places additional responsibility on the remaining batters to provide a solid start. Captain Kusal Mendis will lead Sri Lanka in the Test series, with experienced players including Dinesh Chandimal, Kamindu Mendis and Dhananjaya de Silva expected to play important roles in the batting lineup.

Sri Lanka will also rely on their bowling attack, which includes Prabath Jayasuriya, Asitha Fernando, Lahiru Kumara and Dilshan Madushanka. Their ability to take wickets consistently will be crucial if the visitors are to challenge Pakistan on home soil.

Pakistan Also Make Changes Ahead of the Series

Pakistan are preparing for the series with a reshaped squad under captain Babar Azam. The hosts have recalled Salman Ali Agha and left-arm spinner Ali Usman, while several new faces have been included as the selectors look to strengthen the side following their 3–0 defeat in England.

The changes give Pakistan a chance to rebuild confidence in home conditions. Their batting lineup will be expected to perform more consistently, while the bowling group will look to exploit familiar pitches in Rawalpindi and Lahore.

With both teams adjusting their combinations, the opening Test could be especially important in establishing momentum. Sri Lanka will need to compensate for Nissanka's absence, while Pakistan will aim to take advantage of home conditions and begin the series strongly.

Pakistan vs Sri Lanka Test Series Schedule

First Test: November 9–13, 2026, at Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium, Rawalpindi.

Second Test: November 17–21, 2026, at Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore.

Before the series, Sri Lanka are scheduled to play a three-day warm-up match at Islamabad Club from November 4 to 6. The practice fixture will give the squad an opportunity to acclimatise to local conditions and assess its batting and bowling combinations.

What Nissanka's Absence Means for Sri Lanka

Nissanka's absence is a significant loss, particularly because his injury has interrupted several consecutive assignments. Sri Lanka must now reorganise their top order and find a reliable opening combination before the first Test begins.

Udara brings experience in the format and has previously shown that he can occupy the crease for long periods. His inclusion offers Sri Lanka an experienced alternative, but the team will need contributions from across the lineup to compensate for the missing opener.

The immediate priority is to prepare effectively for Rawalpindi and build a competitive combination for the two-Test series. Nissanka's recovery will continue separately, with no confirmed timeline yet for his return. For Sri Lanka, the challenge is to move forward without him and remain competitive in an important World Test Championship assignment.