In the ongoing Cricket World Cup, Sri Lanka has taken the first bat against Pakistan in Hyderabad. Despite their initial setback against South Africa, the team is now strengthened with the return of their star spinner, Maheesh Theekshana, who was previously sidelined due to a hamstring injury.
Related cricket updates: India Dominates! Cricket World Cup Semi-Final Shocker, Bangladesh Tops 2023 Cricket World Cup, Bats First vs Pakistan! and Cricket World Cup Twist: Sri Lanka's Comeback, England's Downfall.
IPL 2026 data links: IPL 2026 data hub, IPL 2026 points table, IPL 2026 Orange Cap, Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, Shubman Gill, Shreyas Iyer, Rohit Sharma, Pathum Nissanka.
Pakistan Strives to Maintain Winning Streak
On the other side, Pakistan is determined to keep their undefeated status intact following their commendable victory over the Netherlands in their opening match. The team has made a strategic change in their lineup for this crucial game.
Abdullah Shafique, the opener, has been brought in to replace Fakhar Zaman.
Pakistan’s Playing XI
| Player |
|---|
| Abdullah Shafique |
| Imam-ul-Haq |
| Babar Azam (c) |
| Mohammad Rizwan (wk) |
| Saud Shakeel |
| Iftikhar Ahmed |
| Mohammad Nawaz |
| Shadab Khan |
| Hasan Ali |
| Shaheen Afridi |
| Haris Rauf |
Sri Lanka’s Playing XI
| Player |
|---|
| Pathum Nissanka |
| Kusal Perera |
| Kusal Mendis (wk) |
| Sadeera Samarawickrama |
| Charith Asalanka |
| Dhananjaya de Silva |
| Dasun Shanaka (c) |
| Dunith Wellalage |
| Maheesh Theekshana |
| Matheesha Pathirana |
| Dilshan Madushanka |





















