In a strategic move, Sri Lanka won the toss and chose to field first in their one-day international (ODI) clash against Pakistan on Tuesday at the Pindi Cricket Stadium in Rawalpindi. Captain Charith Asalanka cited the anticipated dew factor later in the evening as the primary reason for the decision, believing it would favor the bowling side. The match marked the return of star leg-spinner Wanindu Hasaranga to the ODI format, alongside the debut of 24-year-old left-handed opener Kamil Mishara. Pakistan, led by new ODI captain Shaheen Shah Afridi, made a forced change to their lineup, replacing the unwell leg-spinner Abrar Ahmed, who had delivered a career-best performance in the previous match, with fast bowler Naseem Shah. In Abrar’s absence, Pakistan will rely on spin all-rounders Saim Ayub, Salman Ali Agha, and Mohammad Nawaz to bolster their bowling attack. Rawalpindi is set to host all three ODIs in the series this week, followed by a Twenty20 tri-series featuring Zimbabwe, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka. Pakistan enters the match with renewed confidence after securing a 2-1 series victory against South Africa last week, marking a turnaround from their earlier struggles in 2025.