Naseem Shah back, Abrar Ahmed ruled out as Pakistan put into bat by Sri Lanka in 1st ODI

Pakistan put into bat by SL [Source: Cricketracker/x.com]

The stage is set for a riveting battle as Pakistan is set to take on Sri Lanka in the first ODI of the series at Rawalpindi. The hosts defeated South Africa in the ODI series recently and will have the momentum by their side as they take on their Asian rivals, Sri Lanka in the ODIs before the tri-nation tournament kicks-off.

The matches provide a great chance for both sides to test their bench strengths and team combination ahead of the World Cup in 2027, and ahead of the first ODI, we take a look at what transpired at the toss.

Who won the toss today in PAK Vs SL 1st ODI

Sri Lanka won the toss and captain Charith Asalanka had no hesitation in bowling first on a surface that may get better under lights, and will help the batters in the chase. 

For the Lankan Lions, Wanindu Hasaranga is back in the playing XI. Meanwhile, Pakistan has made one change from the last game against South Africa. Naseem Shah returns in place of Abrar Ahmed, who is unwell.

PAK Vs SL playing XIs

Pakistan Playing XI: Fakhar Zaman, Saim Ayub, Babar Azam, Mohammad Rizwan (wk), Salman Ali Agha, Hussain Talat, Mohammad Nawaz, Faheem Ashraf, Shaheen Afridi (c), Haris Rauf, Naseem Shah

Sri Lanka Playing XI: Pathum Nissanka, Kamil Mishara, Kusal Mendis (wk), Sadeera Samarawickrama, Charith Asalanka (c), Janith Liyanage, Kamindu Mendis, Wanindu Hasaranga, Dushmantha Chameera, Maheesh Theekshana, Asitha Fernando

Who holds the advantage after toss

It is a fresh pitch and no one knows how it would behave. Hence, the decision to bowl first was the right call by Asalanka. The pitch might have something for the pacers and Sri Lanka might look to exploit it. Plus, under lights, conditions are expected to get better for batting, and hence, the Lankans hold the advantage.

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