Three former world champions, seven matches and one trophy. From October 18 to 31, Pakistan will host an international ODI tri-series featuring England and Sri Lanka. The matches will take place in Rawalpindi and Lahore, with the top two teams advancing to the final.
All three sides will see the tournament as an important step towards the 2027 Cricket World Cup. Pakistan will look to make home advantage count, England arrive with a refreshed squad, and Sri Lanka are seeking revenge after a recent series defeat. Here’s a closer look at the biggest storylines with 888STARZ.
Pakistan vs Sri Lanka: The Hosts Get Things Underway
October 18 | Rawalpindi
The opening match promises a competitive contest. Pakistan will be led by Shaheen Shah Afridi, who continues his captaincy duties in ODI cricket.
The hosts can also call on Babar Azam, Fakhar Zaman and Haris Rauf. With a strong bowling attack at their disposal, Pakistan will be determined to begin their home tournament with a victory.
Sri Lanka, captained by Kusal Mendis, have several dangerous players of their own, including Maheesh Theekshana, Dasun Shanaka and Dunith Wellalage. Pathum Nissanka’s availability, however, remains dependent on his recovery from injury.
The big question: will Pakistan take control from the start, or can Sri Lanka spring an early surprise?
Pakistan vs England: The First Major Test
October 20 | Rawalpindi
Two days later, Pakistan face England, who arrive under the leadership of Harry Brook.
England’s squad includes Joe Root, Ben Duckett and Adil Rashid. Sam Curran and Rashid have returned following injuries, but Jofra Archer will miss the series to focus on his recovery, while Jos Buttler is sidelined with an injury.
England recently secured a 2–1 ODI series victory over Sri Lanka. Now they face a different challenge as they look to carry that momentum into an away tournament against Pakistan.
Sri Lanka vs England: A Chance for Revenge
October 22 | Rawalpindi
England won two of their three ODI meetings with Sri Lanka in September, with the final defeat particularly disappointing for the Sri Lankan side.
Now the teams meet again in the same format. Sri Lanka have an opportunity to correct their mistakes, while England will be looking to prove they can deliver another strong performance under different playing conditions.
Neither side can afford a slow start. With only four group-stage matches per team, every result could make a difference in the race to the final.
ODI Tri-Series 2026: Full Match Schedule
- October 18 — Pakistan vs Sri Lanka.
- October 20 — Pakistan vs England.
- October 22 — Sri Lanka vs England.
- October 25 — Pakistan vs England.
- October 27 — Pakistan vs Sri Lanka.
- October 29 — Sri Lanka vs England.
- October 31 — Tournament final.
The first three matches will be played in Rawalpindi, with Lahore hosting the remaining fixtures and the final.
Each team will face both opponents twice before the top two advance to the title decider. Which of these three former world champions will come out on top? We’ll find out on October 31.
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