Pakistan will be without star fast bowler Shaheen Afridi who has been ruled out of the tour.
Sri Lanka vs Pakistan | Second Test | Sunday 24 July – Thursday 28 July 2022 | Galle International Stadium, Galle | 06:30
Sri Lanka
A Dinesh Chandimal double century just wasn’t enough for Sri Lanka as they fell victim to the new era of the game.
Gone are the days of teams being intimidated by fourth innings targets north of 300 and Sri Lanka need to do better with the ball in hand.
Prabath Jayasuriya has been the surprise standout of the home summer for Sri Lanka and you wouldn’t bet against him ending as the top wicket-taker.
Lakshitha Manasinghe comes into the squad to replace mystery spinner Maheesh Theekshana and Pathum Nissanka returns from a Covid-forced absence.
Pakistan
Having just established a new record chase at the self-same Galle Pakistan will be brimming with confidence.
Abdullah Shafique repaid selectors faith in him with a brilliant 160 not out that set up the victory for Pakistan although there are still questions about the exclusion of in-form Shan Masood.
All-rounder Fawad Alam could come into the team with a reshuffle likely after the injury to Shaheen.
Babar Azam and the Pakistan top order give this team the clear edge even away from home.
Verdict: Pakistan
Pakistan should take this one.
