On November 11, a brutal terrorist attack occurred in Islamabad which led to the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) taking proactive measures by officially announcing the alterations to the ongoing series against Sri Lanka, comprising One Day Internationals (ODIs) and the T20I tri-nation series involving Pakistan, Sri Lanka, and Zimbabwe. The tour, however, has been made possible under a new schedule and different locations thanks to the consensus of PCB and Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC), which was born out of the security issue.

Pakistan vs Sri Lanka ODIs Rescheduled

The second and third ODIs of the Pakistan vs Sri Lanka series now stand each one day later than initially planned. Matches that were originally to take place on November 13 and 15, are now rescheduled to November 14 and 16. Both games will be played at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium.

Revised ODI Schedule

The new playing dates are part of an enhanced security plan after the blast, which raised the concern of the Sri Lankan players and staff touring India.

Tri-Nation T20I Series Change of Start Date

Moreover, the PCB has also revised the schedule for the T20I tri-series. The tournament, which was originally planned to start on November 17, has now been pushed back to the 18th, when the first match will be played between Pakistan and Zimbabwe.

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Besides this, the other important aspect is that the whole tri-series will be played in Rawalpindi only, unlike the earlier plan of moving some games to Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore besides Rawalpindi. The security situation dictated this choice.

Revised Tri-Series Schedule

Sri Lanka Confirms Tour Will Continue

SLC in a press release was very clear that the tour will proceed as planned after the discussions with PCB. Nevertheless, Sri Lanka has given the option to each player who is not feeling comfortable in the situation to go back home, and if needed, the replacements are already available.

Although the terror attack has caused a disturbance, both boards have not changed their minds about the series being finished without any problems and in a secured environment.

Pakistan star Babar Azam once again disappointed his fans with his batting performance in the first ODI against Sri Lanka, but he grabbed a stunning catch to bring a crucial wicket for Pakistan.

Pakistan set a 300-run target for Sri Lanka in the first game of the three-match home ODI series. Babar Azam scored 29 runs in the first innings of the match, where Pakistan scored 299/5 in 50 overs, as Wanindu Hasaranga bowled him. 

Sri Lanka got solid start before top-order collapse

Chasing down the challenging target, Sri Lankan openers provided a great start with an 85-run partnership between Pathum Nissanka and the ODI debutant Kamil Mishara. However, the fast bowler Haris Rauf then brought the hosts back in the game with three quick wickets, as the visitors suddenly found themselves from 85/0 to 903. But then Sri Lankan captain Charith Asalanka and Sadeera Samarawickrama controlled the situation with a 57-run partnership for the fourth wicket.

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Babar Azam's stunning catch dismissed set Sadeera Samarawickrama

While Pakistan needed another wicket to control the game, Haris Rauf once again provided a breakthrough; however, the complete credit goes to the former Pakistan skipper Babar Azam. It was a length ball outside off, while Samarawickrama had a thick outside edge that flew to the slip. Babar was at the first slip, but he had to go for a full dive as his one-hander attempt was successful to bring a crucial wicket for the hosts. Samarawickrama was dismissed for 39 off 48 balls, while Rauf picked his fourth wicket for the night, while Babar put a special mark, as that catch was one of the greatest catches in international cricket this year. 

🚨 Catch of the Year from - Babar Azam ❤️

pic.twitter.com/cGmrDXZWSl

— Ehtisham Siddique (@iMShami_) November 11, 2025

That wicket put Pakistan in control of the game, while the visitors Sri Lanka suddenly found themselves under pressure in the big ODI chase.

The International Cricket Council (ICC) is working to manage the different cricket formats. In the latest ICC meeting, there were key discussions on the future of the different cricket formats, and the future of the ODI and World Test Championship has been clarified, as the working committee is set to work on these. 

Last week, the ICC held its quarterly meeting in Dubai. Former New Zealand cricketer Roger Twose-led working group addressed the issues over cricket's three formats and also provided recommendations to the ICC board and Chief Executives' Committee (CEC).

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Next WTC cycle strategy

The potential two-tier World Test Championship talk is in the bin now, as the ESPNcricinfo report suggests that the next WTC cycle can see all 12 Test-playing nations. The ongoing WTC cycle (2025-2027) is the fourth WTC cycle, where nine teams participate. While the next WTC cycle will run between 2027 and 2029, the 12 teams are likely to participate after the massive unsupported for the potential two-tier WTC system. 

So, Afghanistan, Zimbabwe, and Ireland are likely to be part of the next WTC cycle, which is likely to begin in July 2027. However, the number of minimum matches and series for each team hasn't been decided yet. Also, there is unlikely to be any extra funding for hosting a Test match, which can be a massive issue for the lower-status Test teams, including Ireland. 

ODI Super League revival

Meanwhile, to make the One-Day International format great again, the ICC is thinking of reviving the ODI Super League. It has experienced only once, with 13 teams participating in the 2020-2023 ICC ODI Super League, which played an important role in the direct qualification for the ICC Men's Cricket World Cup 2023. Unlike the present or previous direct ODI World Cup qualification model, which only considers the ODI ranking, the ODI Super League provided better and fairer chances to all participating teams to achieve the direct qualification for the ODI World Cup. However, the number of teams for the next ICC ODI Super League is yet to be confirmed, as it can only begin in 2028. 

Shreyas Iyer, the vice-captain of India's ODI team, is believed to be doubtful for the upcoming three-match ODI series against South Africa, starting on November 30. The series will take place in Ranchi, Raipur, and Visakhapatnam, following India's two-Test series starting on November 14. Iyer's unavailability could disrupt India's middle-order stability in what will be a busy international schedule for the national side.

Iyer is still recovering from a rib injury he sustained while playing during the third ODI against Australia last month. While fielding, he was struck on his lower left side of his rib cage, with the injury case eventually propagating to internal bleeding. The injury was worse than what they thought it was at first. Iyer has been instructed by doctors to rest for a minimum of one month before returning to play.

According to an individual in close contact with the Indian cricket Board, Iyer's oxygen level had gone down to 50 during the incident and he blacked out for a short period. After this he was taken to a Sydney hospital, where he was treated for a lacerated spleen and other internal injuries. Iyer has been able to return home, but he is still not well enough to start training. A source with the BCCI has indicated that the selectors do not want to rush his return, and therefore, he is highly unlikely to play in the South Africa series. 

India May Look For Replacements 

Iyer, 30, showed signs of form on the Australia tour, scoring 11 in Perth and a substantial 68 in Adelaide. However, injuries over the past few years have disrupted his form and continued performance.

If Iyer is out of the South Africa ODIs, the selectors will be forced to rethink their middle order plans for the important tournaments next year. While fans are hopeful he will be back to play, all signs suggest the South Africa ODI series lined up starting on November 30 in Ranchi is unlikely for Iyer, pushing the team management to look for the replacement shortly.

Sri Lanka are all set to return to international cricket this month with a tour of Pakistan that includes a three-match ODI series and a T20I tri-series also featuring Zimbabwe. The Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) selectors have named 16-member squads for both formats, with Charith Asalanka taking charge as captain in what will be his first full assignment as skipper across formats.

Asalanka to lead a refreshed Sri Lankan side

The selectors have shown confidence in 27-year-old Charith Asalanka, who has been one of the team’s most reliable middle-order batters in recent years. His calm leadership and consistent form have earned him the responsibility to guide a young Sri Lankan side in both the ODIs and T20Is.

There have been a few forced changes in the squad due to injuries. Left-arm pacer Dilshan Madushanka, a key bowler in recent months, has been ruled out with a knee injury, paving the way for Eshan Malinga to make the ODI squad. Meanwhile, Matheesha Pathirana, who was originally included in the T20I side, has been sidelined as he recovers from an upper respiratory tract infection, with Asitha Fernando replacing him.

Crucial preparation ahead of T20 World Cup

The tour will not only mark Sri Lanka’s return to action but will also serve as valuable preparation ahead of the 2026 ICC Men’s T20 World Cup, which will be co-hosted by India and Sri Lanka. The upcoming matches will give the selectors a closer look at emerging talents such as Kamil Mishara, Janith Liyanage, and Pavan Rathnayake, who are pushing for permanent places in the white-ball setup.

All-rounders Wanindu Hasaranga and Maheesh Theekshana will provide the spin firepower, while Dushmantha Chameera and Asitha Fernando will lead the pace attack.

Pakistan and Zimbabwe to provide strong competition

Pakistan come into the series on the back of a busy home season, having drawn their ODI series against South Africa and won the T20Is 2–1. They also recently reached the Asia Cup final after defeating Sri Lanka in the Super Fours, so the hosts will be full of confidence.

Zimbabwe, meanwhile, have been showing signs of resurgence with their younger squad and will be eager to challenge both subcontinent giants in the tri-series.

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Full Schedule: Sri Lanka tour of Pakistan & T20I Tri-Series

Sri Lanka squads

ODI Squad:
Charith Asalanka (C), Pathum Nissanka, Lahiru Udara, Kamil Mishara, Kusal Mendis, Sadeera Samarawickrama, Kamindu Mendis, Janith Liyanage, Pavan Rathnayake, Wanindu Hasaranga, Maheesh Theekshana, Jeffrey Vandersay, Dushmantha Chameera, Asitha Fernando, Pramod Madushan, Eshan Malinga.

T20I Squad:
Charith Asalanka (C), Dasun Shanaka (VC), Pathum Nissanka, Kusal Mendis, Kusal Perera, Kamil Mishara, Kamindu Mendis, Bhanuka Rajapaksa, Janith Liyanage, Wanindu Hasaranga, Maheesh Theekshana, Dushan Hemantha, Dushmantha Chameera, Nuwan Thushara, Asitha Fernando, Eshan Malinga.

Indian T20I skipper Suryakumar Yadav has made a heartfelt appeal to former South African star AB de Villiers for guidance on improving his batting balance between T20Is and ODIs. After leading India to victory at the 2025 Asia Cup, Suryakumar is currently involved in the T20I series against Australia but has admitted he has had difficulty making the transition from of his aggressive style across the two white-ball formats.

Speaking candidly about his batting challenges, Suryakumar shared his desire to connect with the Proteas legend to understand what worked for him during his career. “If I meet him soon, then I will like to ask him how he managed to balance his T20I and ODI game. I haven't been able to do so. I thought ODIs should be played like T20Is. I want to ask him what he did to be successful in both the formats,” said Suryakumar during an interview with journalist Vimal Kumar.

The Indian skipper added a sincere plea: “AB, if you are listening to this, please get in touch with me quickly because there are important three-four years lying ahead for me. I’m very keen on playing ODI cricket also. Please help me! I couldn’t balance T20Is and ODIs.”

Suryakumar Eyes Comeback in ODI Cricket

As of November 4, Suryakumar Yadav has played one Test, 37 ODIs, and 93 T20Is for India. While getting a spot in the Test team looks difficult, he still hopes to make a comeback in ODI cricket. The 35-year-old last played an ODI in the 2023 World Cup final, where India ended as runners-up

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In ODIs, he has an excellent strike rate of 105.02 but has only averaged 25.76, which isn't repeatable. With many talented players in India’s middle order, he will have to perform well in domestic matches to return to the national ODI team. His recent form has been mixed, he scored just 72 runs in six innings during the Asia Cup at a strike rate of 101.40. In the current T20I series against Australia, he started with a quick unbeaten 39, but managed only 25 runs in the next two games. The final two T20Is are scheduled for November 6 and 8, giving him another chance to rediscover his rhythm.

New Zealand captain Sophie Devine was visibly emotional after her team’s defeat to India at the DY Patil Stadium, which ended their hopes of reaching the Women’s ODI World Cup semi-finals. The loss also marked the beginning of the end for Devine’s illustrious career, as she prepares to retire from the 50-over format after New Zealand’s final league game against England on Sunday.

Reflecting on her team’s campaign, Devine admitted the disappointment was hard to process but expressed immense pride in the younger players coming through. “I’m incredibly proud of where this team’s going,” she said. “When you think about the likes of Izzy Gaze, Brooke Halliday, Melie Kerr, and Eden Carson, the way they’re starting to grow into themselves makes it easier when I do step away after the next game.”

The White Ferns’ journey came to a halt after a challenging match against India. Opting to bowl first, New Zealand restricted the hosts early but couldn’t contain the middle overs as Smriti Mandhana and Pratika Rawal powered India past 300. Chasing a revised target of 325 in 44 overs, the Kiwis never quite found momentum despite fighting knocks from Halliday and Gaze.

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Sophie Devine reflects on New Zealand’s World Cup exit and hopes to finish her ODI career on a high

“It’s frustrating and gutting to lose any game of cricket, but especially when you still had a chance of making it to the semi-finals,” Devine said. “We did a lot right early, but a big partnership put us under pressure. That’s cricket.”

Devine also touched on the mental side of leadership, admitting that dealing with heartbreak is the hardest part of sport. “You can work harder than anyone, do all the right things, but it doesn’t guarantee results,” she said, her voice cracking with emotion.

Looking ahead, Devine praised India’s rise and the success of the Women’s Premier League (WPL), calling it a game-changer. “I think India can be at the forefront of where women’s cricket can go,” she said. As she prepares for her ODI farewell, Devine hopes her team can finish on a high. “We’ll dust ourselves off and go hard against England. Hopefully, we can leave with our heads held high.”

Rohit Sharma silenced all critics with a solid batting display in the second ODI match against Australia at Adelaide on Thursday, October 23. The former captain of India, who had been questioned about his batting form and fitness, scored a confident 73 runs to re-establish that he is still one of the game's best in the 50-over format.

After the match, a funny video went viral on social media featuring head coach Gautam Gambhir and Rohit. In the clip, Gambhir jokingly teased Rohit, saying, “Rohit, sabko lag rha tha ki aaj farewell match thha, ek photo to lagaa do,” which means, “Rohit, everyone thought today was your farewell match, put up a photo at least!" The light-hearted banter brought smiles to fans, especially after Rohit’s brilliant innings that ended recent talks about his retirement.

Rohit’s 73 came off 97 balls on a tricky pitch that offered swing and bounce for Australia’s fast bowlers. The star player from Mumbai began slowly and made a well-deserved half-century in 74 balls, his slowest ODI half-century since 2015, and adjusted well to the conditions—an experience and skill that has served him well.

Rohit and Shreyas Iyer Build an Important Partnership

Rohit and vice-captain Shreyas Iyer scored an important 118-run partnership in making 264 for 9, (Iyer) making 61. Although India lost in the end after Australia chased down the target with two wickets left in the match, Rohit's innings was one of the highlights of the series.

Watch the video here

 

 

 

 

 

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A post shared by Rohit Sharma (Fan Page) (@rohit_cha_fans45)

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The knock also marked several milestones for Rohit. He became the first Indian batter to score 1000 ODI runs against Australia in their own backyard and moved up to become India’s third-highest run-getter in ODIs. This performance was particularly important, as he returned to the national side after a seven-month break and had scored only eight runs in the first ODI at Perth.

The third and final ODI of the series will now be played at the Sydney Cricket Ground on Saturday, October 25, with India looking to bounce back and Rohit aiming to continue his fine form.

Virat Kohli’s comeback series has started on a challenging note. Two consecutive ducks in the first two ODIs against Australia were far from what his fans had hoped for. However, Kohli’s sharp instincts in the field during the second ODI in Adelaide drew attention and highlighted his cricketing acumen.

As India defended 265, cameras captured an interesting moment between Kohli and Australian batter Travis Head, who was on 28 at the time. Indian fans still remember Head’s explosive 137 off 120 in the 2023 ODI World Cup final, which shattered India’s dream of winning the trophy for the third time.

Aware of Head’s potential to dominate the game quickly, Kohli approached the Australian opener, placed an arm around his shoulder, and said something. Moments later, Head miscued a shot off Harshit Rana and was caught by Kohli himself. Though the exact words remain unknown, the incident highlighted Kohli’s psychological sharpness on the field.

Kohli Equals Yuvraj Singh in Most Ducks for India in ODIs

Despite the fielding highlight, India lost the match by 2 wickets, with Australia sealing the series 2-0. For the first time in his career, Kohli scored two back-to-back ducks in ODI cricket. In 304 matches, he has now recorded 18 ducks, equalling Yuvraj Singh, who played 301 ODIs to achieve the same.

Watch the video here

Virat Kohli's strategic distraction! Travis Head was out next ball. Master of the mind games. 😉

​#ViratKohli
​#TravisHead
​#CricketBanter
​#MindGames
​#Cricket
​#INDvAUS
​#Wicket
​#OnFieldFun
​#Goat
​#CricketFever pic.twitter.com/DBWtp9q9j8

— Umesh patel (@umesh_pate26949) October 24, 2025

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While Kohli and Yuvraj are joint-4th on India’s list of most ducks in ODIs, the 3rd position belongs to Anil Kumble with 18 ducks in 269 matches. The 2nd spot is held by Javagal Srinath with 19 ducks in 229 matches, while the record is held by Sachin Tendulkar, who scored 20 ducks in 463 ODIs.

Though India has already lost the 3-match series 2-0, the Men in Blue will look to restore pride in the third ODI. The final match of the series will be played on October 25 at the iconic Sydney Cricket Ground. Fans will be keen to see if India makes any changes to the squad and whether Kohli can regain his form with the bat while continuing his brilliance in the field.

Shreyas Iyer made a heroic half-century in the second ODI between Australia and India at Adelaide Oval on Thursday, October 23. The right-handed batsman contributed significantly to settling the Indian innings by adding a vital 118-run partnership off 136 balls for the third wicket with Rohit Sharma. Their association followed early losses when Shubman Gill and Virat Kohli were sent packing in the seventh over by Xavier Bartlett. Due to their consistent effort, India was able to register a fighting score of 264/9 in the first innings.

In spite of India's solid comeback, Australia chased the score in 46.2 overs with two wickets remaining. Iyer's calm innings was one of the few positives for India on an otherwise challenging day. His condition-sensing ability to play with patience was enjoyed by supporters as well as pundits.

Talking after the game, Shreyas revealed his new batting stance, which has been a subject of debate among cricket fans. The Mumbai batter revealed that he wanted to return to a more upright stance to help him handle extra bounce on certain pitches.

Shreyas Iyer Explains His Upright Stance and Key Partnership with Rohit Sharma

“Well, this technique which I've got lately, it's not that I've changed over the time, but since last year, I wanted to have an upright stance where the bounce is a little bit more than expected. And based on that, I worked with my coach and we developed this new technique and it was kind of suiting me pretty well. And the way I grew up playing, it was very much that I predominantly had an upright stance,” Iyer said at the post-match press conference.

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He further added, “And I just was like, let's go back to my old technique and see how it paces up. So yeah, I backed myself and then from there on, I started in the domestic. And then till now, I've been continuing with the same stance.” Speaking about his partnership with Rohit, he said it was crucial to steady the innings against Josh Hazlewood’s fiery spell. “It wasn’t an easy wicket to bat on, especially at the start, so we decided to rotate the strike and build momentum. Even in Mumbai, on red-soil wickets where there’s extra bounce, this stance helps. You’ve got to keep changing depending on the pitch, and right now, I feel I can adapt anywhere.”