With the series already in the bag, Pakistan’s selectors have made four major alterations to their XI for the third and final ODI against Sri Lanka in Rawalpindi. The changes reflect the board’s decision to rotate the squad, test new talent, and give fringe players a chance in a dead rubber match.
One of the headline changes is the inclusion of Haseebullah Khan in what will be his ODI debut. He takes over from Saim Ayub, who has been rested for this fixture. The move signals Pakistan’s intent to give Haseebullah more exposure at the international level and evaluate his potential in white-ball cricket.
Another significant shift comes in the spin department, with Faisal Akram making his way into the playing XI. The young left-arm wrist-spinner replaces Abrar Ahmed, allowing Pakistan to freshen up their bowling arsenal and explore different options against Sri Lanka’s batting order.
The spot of all-rounder Mohammad Nawaz has been vacated, with Faheem Ashraf coming in. Ashraf brings his seam-bowling abilities and lower-order batting to the team, offering versatility and balance. Similarly, Mohammad Wasim Jr. replaces Naseem Shah in the pace lineup, giving him a deserved run in the final game and testing him on an international stage.
Captain Shaheen Afridi won the toss and chose to field first, confident in his updated attack. While the top order retains Fakhar Zaman, Babar Azam, and Mohammad Rizwan, the inclusion of fresh faces is clearly aimed at rotation and building depth.
With the series already wrapped up, the final ODI provides Pakistan an ideal opportunity to assess emerging talent under real-match pressures without jeopardizing the result. If Haseebullah Khan and Akram deliver, their inclusion could pay dividends for future series planning.
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