Pakistan in Sri Lanka 2025/26

The bilateral series between Pakistan and Sri Lanka operates as a long-standing fixture in international cricket. It encompasses Test, One Day International, and Twenty20 International matches played intermittently between the two nations. The schedule is governed by the International Cricket Council’s Future Tours Programme rather than a fixed annual calendar.

The rivalry is defined by contrasting styles of play. Sri Lanka relies on a web of elite spinners, while Pakistan typically deploys aggressive fast bowling attacks. This tactical difference shapes the nature of the contests. The series holds historical significance as Sri Lanka was the first team to facilitate the return of international cricket to Pakistan, creating a unique diplomatic and sporting bond between the two countries.

The history of the encounter dates back to the late 1980s. The first One Day International was contested in Sharjah in December 1989. Pakistan has historically dominated this format, winning 59.37 per cent of their 148 matches. The first Twenty20 International took place in Hambantota in June 2012. Pakistan has won 17 of the 29 games played in this shortest format. Test cricket between the sides began in February 1999 in Rawalpindi. Sri Lanka secured victory in that inaugural match. Over 59 Test matches, the record stands at 23 wins for Pakistan, 17 for Sri Lanka, and 19 draws.

Specific trophies are occasionally unveiled for individual series or formats, but there is no single permanent trophy dedicated to the entire bilateral relationship. The governing bodies involved are the Pakistan Cricket Board and Sri Lanka Cricket. The series has seen periods of inactivity, with the last bilateral contest concluding in July 2022. Both teams have also faced each other in major global finals, including the 2009 Asia Cup and the 2009 T20 World Cup, adding further layers to their competitive history.