Shadab Khan omitted from Pakistan XI for tri-series final against Sri Lanka in Lahore

Pakistan captain Shaheen Afridi won the toss and elected to bowl as Pakistan met Sri Lanka in the ODI Tri-Series final at Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore on Saturday, October 31, with Shadab Khan left out of the side after falling ill. Faheem Ashraf was named in Pakistan’s playing XI as his replacement.

Pakistan entered the final having won their first three group games but suffered a heavy batting collapse in their last group match when they were bowled out for 110. In an earlier group fixture against England Pakistan were 131/8 while chasing 242, and Sri Lanka arrived having lost their previous match while chasing 387, finishing on 331. The tournament has produced competitive encounters and both sides are described as being in a transition phase while preparing for the 2027 ODI World Cup, making the final an opportunity to build momentum.

Shadab produced the series’ standout batting performance against England, finishing an unbeaten 113 off 96 balls while batting at no. 8, hitting 13 fours and five sixes. In that chase he featured in several late partnerships, including an 89-run stand with Haris Rauf that helped take Pakistan over the line.

Pakistan’s selection change for the final was confirmed when Shaheen Afridi stated that Shadab was feeling unwell and therefore did not make the playing XI. The team named Faheem Ashraf to replace him in the matchday squad.

Sri Lanka’s recent defeat chasing 387 highlighted concerns about their bowling after they reached 331 but fell short, while Pakistan’s batting inconsistencies were exposed in the 110 all-out innings. Both teams enter the final aiming to address those specific issues and secure a tournament victory.

With Shadab absent and Faheem Ashraf included, the outcome of the final carries immediate significance for confidence and preparation ahead of the 2027 ODI World Cup, less than a year away, as stated in coverage of the tri-series.