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The three-match ODI series between Pakistan and Sri Lanka at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium promises to be an enthralling contest between two competitive Asian cricket teams. The series kicks off on November 11, followed by additional matches scheduled at the same venue on November 13 and November 15.
This ODI series is seen as a crucial platform for both sides to test their combinations ahead of the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2027. Pakistan, playing at home, has the advantage of familiar conditions, with pitches that traditionally assist their versatile bowling attack but also offer solid batting surfaces.
PAK vs SL 2025, ODI Series: Preview
Pakistan boasts a formidable pace-bowling lineup featuring Shaheen Shah Afridi, Naseem Shah and Mohammad Wasim Jr., supported by dependable spinners like Abrar Ahmed and Mohammad Nawaz who can exploit slow pitch conditions. The batting order is anchored by experienced campaigners Babar Azam, Fakhar Zaman and emerging talents like Saim Ayub, providing a mix of stability and aggression.
Sri Lanka arrives in Pakistan bringing a balanced squad with seasoned players such as Pathum Nissanka, Kusal Mendis and Charith Asalanka leading their batting efforts. The team also relies on their crafty spinners Wanindu Hasaranga and Maheesh Theekshana, especially in conditions that may favour turn as the series progresses.
Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium Pitch Report
The Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium is known for its sporting surface that offers a fine balance between bat and ball. The pitch generally provides good bounce and carry, allowing batsmen to play their shots freely, while competitive totals of around 240-242 are common. However, conditions in Rawalpindi can also favour fast bowlers early on, particularly when there is cloud cover or moisture in the air. The new ball tends to swing and seam, making the opening overs crucial for pace attacks looking to make early inroads.
As the match progresses, dew becomes a significant factor, especially during the second innings. The moisture on the surface causes the ball to skid on to the bat, making it difficult for bowlers to grip and extract movement. This often results in batting becoming easier under lights, giving teams chasing a notable advantage.
Historical data further supports this trend, as nearly 80% of matches at Rawalpindi have been won by teams bowling first. This makes the toss a critical element of the contest, with captains likely to choose fielding first to exploit the early movement and swing on offer. By striking early with the ball, teams can aim to restrict opponents to a manageable total before conditions ease for batting later in the game.
Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium ODI Stats and Records
- Total Matches: 27
- Matches won batting first: 11
- Matches won bowling first: 15
- Average 1st innings score: 242
- Average 2nd innings score: 214
- Highest total recorded: 337/3 (48.2 Overs) By Pakistan vs New Zealand
- Lowest total recorded: 104/10 (33 Overs) By Zimbabwe vs Sri Lanka
- Highest score chased: 337/3 (48.2 Overs) By Pakistan vs New Zealand
- Lowest score defended: 206/9 (50 Overs) By England vs Pakistan
