Sineth Jayawardena, Vijayakanth Viyaskanth in SL squad for Pakistan T20Is

Sri Lanka has announced a 15-man squad for their upcoming T20I series against Pakistan, ushering in a wave of fresh talent while leaving out several notable names. Headlined by the explosive inclusion of opening batter Sineth Jayawardena and legspinner Vijayakanth Viyaskanth, the revamped side aims to turn the page following a turbulent run in the format. The three-match series is set to kick off on October 9, with all encounters hosted at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium.Rising Stars Earn Their StripesJayawardena, 21, forced his way into the national setup on the back of scintillating domestic form. Playing for the Tamil Union Cricket Club, the young opener tore through bowling attacks with blistering knocks of 101 off 52 balls and 82 off 32 balls over the past month. Although he featured in a single T20I during the Asian Games, this marks his maiden call-up to a full-strength Sri Lankan side.With star legspinner Wanindu Hasaranga sidelined due to an injury, Vijayakanth Viyaskanth has been handed the primary spin-bowling responsibilities. Meanwhile, seam-bowling allrounder Chamindu Wickramasinghe and batter Sahan Arachchige also return to the squad, alongside experienced seamer Binura Fernando. Having previously made sporadic appearances, these players face an ideal platform to cement their places in a side looking for stability and success in 2026.Notable Omissions and Injury ConcernsThe selectors opted for a bold direction, leaving out senior batter Charith Asalanka, fast bowler Dilshan Madushanka, ambidextrous spinner Tharindu Rathnayake, and batting allrounder Janith Liyanage.Pace spearhead Dushmantha Chameera has been included in the touring party, though his final participation remains contingent on clearing late fitness assessments.Full Sri Lanka T20I Squad:Kusal Mendis (Captain), Kamil Mishara, Sineth Jayawardena, Lahiru Udara, Sahan Arachchige, Kamindu Mendis, Dasun Shanaka, Chamindu Wickramasinghe, Dunith Wellalage, Maheesh Theekshana, Vijayakanth Viyaskanth, Binura Fernando, Nuwan Thushara, Eshan Malinga, and Dushmantha Chameera (subject to fitness).