After an unsatisfactory performance at the ACC Asia Cup 2025, Sri Lanka is now playing three ODIs against Pakistan followed by a T20I tri-series with Zimbabwe. Unfortunately, the leading Sri Lankan fast bowler Matheesha Pathirana has been absent from the whole tour of Pakistan for the visitors’ squad.
What happened To Matheesha Pathirana That He is Not Playing in PAK vs SL Series?
It is important to mention that Pathirana is not yet fit due to an upper respiratory tract infection. The 22-year-old will not be participating in the upcoming white-ball series for the second time in a row. He had already been left out of Sri Lanka’s Asia Cup 2025 squad after his one and only appearance in their tournament opener against Bangladesh.
Pathirana’s performance in that match was substandard as he was unable to take a single wicket while giving away 42 runs in four overs. Nevertheless, he has not been a regular member of the national squad for the last 50-over series. Pathirana’s difficult bowling action coupled with injuries has led to him being fielded only in the T20 format of cricket.
His last ODI match was against the same opponent during the ICC Cricket World Cup in October 2023. However, the bowler has some exceptional statistics in his limited 50-over matches like taking 17 wickets in 12 games and a four-wicket haul against Bangladesh.
Sri Lanka Squads
For ODIs Against Pakistan: Charith Asalanka (C), Pathum Nissanka, Lahiru Udara, Kamil Mishara, Kusal Mendis, Sadeera Samarawickrama, Kamindu Mendis, Janith Liyanage, Pavan Rathnayake, Wanindu Hasaranaga, Maheesh Theekshana, Jeffrey Vandersay, Dushmantha Chameera, Asitha Fernando, Pramod Madushan, Eshan Malinga.
For T20I Tri-series: Charith Asalanka (C), Dasun Shanaka (VC), Pathum Nissanka, Kusal Mendis, Kusal Perera, Kamil Mishara, Kamindu Mendis, Bhanuka Rajapaksa, Janith Liyanage, Wanindu Hasaranaga, Maheesh Theekshana, Dushan Hemantha, Dushmantha Chameera, Nuwan Thushara, Asitha Fernando, Eshan Malinga
