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Pakistan takes big decision; may tour Sri Lanka for T20I series before World Cup: Report

Rajgeeta Yadav

Pakistan likely to tour Sri Lanka for T20I series [Source: AFP]Pakistan likely to tour Sri Lanka for T20I series [Source: AFP]

Pakistan team might tour Sri Lanka in January 2026 for a three-match T20I series as part of their final preparations for the T20 World Cup. Reports say that the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) is in serious talks with Sri Lanka to arrange the series before the global tournament begins in February 2026.

The discussions between the two boards are ongoing, and if everything goes smoothly, the matches are expected to be played in Colombo and Galle on January 8, 10 and 12. 

Both boards are eager to finalise the schedule soon, as this short series would help Pakistan’s players adjust to the playing conditions in Sri Lanka, which are expected to be similar to those during the World Cup, featuring slow pitches and spin-friendly surfaces.

According to Pakistan sports journalist, the PCB is working hard to arrange these matches to give the national side valuable match practice against a competitive team before the big event. The tour will not only benefit Pakistan but will also help Sri Lanka prepare for the tournament, as both teams aim to refine their squads.

Pakistan players might face challenges due to T20I series

However, if the tour goes ahead, Pakistan players may face challenges in getting No Objection Certificates (NOCs) to play Big Bash League. The BBL runs from December 14, 2025, to January 25, 2026, and seven Pakistani players are expected to participate. If the Sri Lanka tour happens in January, their availability for the BBL could be limited.

Notably, before this possible series, Sri Lanka are already scheduled to visit Pakistan in November 2025 for ODI series from November 11 to 15, followed by a tri-nation series involving Afghanistan from November 17 to 29. 

However, due to recent tensions between Pakistan and Afghanistan, it’s uncertain whether that tri-series will take place or be replaced by a bilateral series between Pakistan and Sri Lanka instead.