DAMBULLA: Pakistan T20I captain Salman Ali Agha believes that competing in Sri Lankan conditions ahead of the upcoming T20 World Cup provides his team with a valuable competitive advantage, as Pakistan prepare to face Sri Lanka in a three-match T20I series starting Wednesday at the Rangiri Dambulla International Cricket Stadium (RDICS).
Speaking at the pre-series press conference in Dambulla, Agha underlined the importance of the tour as a crucial phase of Pakistan’s World Cup preparations. With the global tournament scheduled next month, the Pakistan skipper stressed that the upcoming series is more than just bilateral cricket—it is a strategic exercise aimed at fine-tuning combinations and understanding playing conditions.
“Playing all our matches in Sri Lanka before the World Cup is definitely beneficial,” Agha said. “This series is about preparation. We have toured Sri Lanka many times over the years, so we are familiar with the pitches and conditions. Playing competitive cricket here before the World Cup always helps.”
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The 32-year-old all-rounder also addressed the absence of several senior players, describing it as an opportunity rather than a setback. While acknowledging the contributions of Pakistan’s established stars, Agha highlighted that the current squad includes players capable of stepping up at the highest level.
“They are megastars and have served Pakistan cricket brilliantly,” he said. “But the players we have selected for this tour are also very talented. Some of them are the future of Pakistan cricket, and this is the right time to give them exposure.”
Agha expressed particular excitement about young batter Khawaja Nafay, praising his versatility and potential impact on the team. The captain noted that Nafay’s ability to contribute both as a batsman and a wicketkeeper adds balance to the squad.
“Khawaja Nafay is a very exciting player,” Agha remarked. “He is a quality batsman and can keep wickets as well. We are hopeful he gets an opportunity and carries his domestic and league form into international cricket.”
The Pakistan captain also welcomed players returning from the International League T20 (ILT20), congratulating them on their recent success and backing them to maintain their momentum.
“They have played excellent cricket in the ILT20 and won the tournament,” Agha said. “Hopefully, they continue that form when they join us here.”
Discussing Shadab Khan’s return after injury, Agha described the abundance of all-rounders as a positive challenge for team management. He credited Shadab for performing strongly in the Big Bash League and emphasized the depth Pakistan currently enjoys.
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“Managing so many quality spinners and all-rounders is not easy,” he admitted. “But it is a luxury to have players who can bat and bowl in all conditions. It’s a good headache to have.”
Pakistan and Sri Lanka will face off on January 7, 9, and 11, with all three matches scheduled at RDICS. The series holds added importance as a final competitive rehearsal ahead of the T20 World Cup, which runs from February 7 to March 8.
Historically, the two sides have played 27 T20Is, with Pakistan winning 16 matches and Sri Lanka claiming 11 victories, setting the stage for another closely contested series.
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