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PAK vs SL 1st Match, ODI Tri-Series 2026: Who Will Win the Opening Match?

akshay pic By - Sunday, Oct 18, 2026
Last Updated on Oct 18, 2026 12:24 PM

Pakistan ODI Tri-Series, 2026 kicks off with a highly anticipated clash at Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium. In a blockbuster opener for both teams, Pakistan will face co-hosts Sri Lanka at 01:30 PM (IST) - 08:00 AM (GMT) Sunday, 18th October 2026. As the cricketing world turns its eyes to this thrilling encounter, we break down the teams, conditions, and key players to predict who will emerge victorious.

PAK vs SL (Pakistan vs Sri Lanka) Match Details

Match PAK vs SL
League Pakistan ODI Tri-Series, 2026
Date Sunday, 18th October 2026
Time 01:30 PM (IST) - 08:00 AM (GMT)
Match Venue Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium, Rawalpindi, Pakistan

Pakistan vs Sri Lanka 1st ODI Match Previews

A highly anticipated ODI tri-series is set to take place in Pakistan, featuring teams from Pakistan, England, and Sri Lanka. The tournament will consist of six group-stage matches, with the top two teams qualifying for the final.

In the tournament opener, Pakistan will face Sri Lanka. Following their recent three-match T20I series in Rawalpindi, the two sides are set for another intense encounter. Pakistan won that T20I series 2-1 and will be keen to carry that momentum into this ODI series.

On the other hand, Sri Lanka will look to make a strong start to the tri-series, buoyed by their victory in the final T20I. However, their inconsistent batting in recent matches remains a concern, and the team will be hoping for a more reliable performance from their top order.

Pakistan is expected to benefit from the return of key players such as Babar Azam, Shaheen Afridi, and Haris Rauf. With both teams aiming to kick off the tournament with a win, the opening clash at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium promises to be an exciting contest for cricket fans.

Who will win today ODI Tri-Series Match between Pakistan vs Sri Lanka?

Aaj ka PAK vs SL match kon jeetega: Pakistan is the most likely winner in today’s first ODI of the tri-series against Sri Lanka.

Why Pakistan could win:

  • Home advantage: Pakistan has a very strong record in Rawalpindi.
  • Head-to-head record: Pakistan has won 12 of their last 17 ODIs against Sri Lanka.
  • Key players: Babar Azam, Fakhar Zaman, and Shaheen Afridi could prove to be crucial.

In the ODI tri-series match, Pakistan holds a slight edge over Sri Lanka. Pakistan has an approximately 57% chance of winning, while Sri Lanka’s chances of victory are around 40%.

PAK vs SL ODI Head-to-Head Record

  • Matches Played- 160
  • Won by PAK- 96
  • Won by SL- 59
  • No Result- 5
  • Draw- 0

PAK vs SL Pitch Report

The pitch in Rawalpindi is good for batting, and a high-scoring contest is expected. The ball might seam a bit early on, while the hot and dry weather could offer some turn and grip for the spinners. The toss will be crucial, as the team chasing the target will encounter better playing conditions. The average first-innings score here has consistently been above 255. The team that wins the toss might opt ​​to bowl first.

PAK vs SL Match Playing 11

Pakistan (PAK) Possible Playing 11: 1. Fakhar Zaman, 2. Saim Ayub, 3. Babar Azam, 4. Salman Agha, 5. Hasan Nawaz, 6. Saad Baig(WK), 7. Shadab Khan, 8. Faheem Ashraf, 9. Shaheen Afridi(C), 10. Haris Rauf, 11. Abrar Ahmed

Sri Lanka (SL) Possible Playing 11: 1. Kamil Mishara, 2. Avishka Fernando, 3. Kusal Mendis(WK)(C), 4. Kamindu Mendis, 5. Pavan Rathnayake, 6. Sahan Arachchige, 7. Dasun Shanaka, 8. Dunith Wellalage, 9. Dushmantha Chameera, 10. Eshan Malinga, 11. Asitha Fernando

PAK vs SL Dream11 Team

Wicketkeeper

  • Kusal Mendis
  • Muhammad Ghazi Ghori

Batters

  • Babar Azam
  • Fakhar Zaman
  • Saim Ayub
  • Pathum Nissanka

All-rounders

  • Salman Ali Agha
  • Shadab Khan
  • Dunith Wellalage

Bowlers

  • Shaheen Shah Afridi
  • Maheesh Theekshana

Captain and Vice-Captain

  • Captain: Babar Azam
  • Vice-Captain: Kusal Mendis
Will PAK (Pakistan) win?

Who will win PAK vs SL Cricket match?

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Disclaimer

Possible11 is a sports news and analysis platform designed purely for entertainment and educational purposes. All match previews, player insights, and team analyses are based on publicly available information and expert opinions. We do not promote or support betting, gambling, or real-money gaming in any form. Users are encouraged to enjoy our content responsibly and use it for informational purposes only.

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