Is PAK vs SL 1st ODI Tri-Nation Series 2026 Live Telecast Available on PTV Sports?
Get ready for the Tri-Nation Series 2026 opener! Pakistan takes on Sri Lanka in the 1st ODI today, October 18, 2026, at Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium, starting 1:00 PM PKT. This crucial match aids preparation for the ICC Men's Cricket World Cup 2027. Shaheen Shah Afridi leads Pakistan, while Kusal Mendis captains Sri Lanka.
Rawalpindi is set to come alive today, Sunday, October 18, 2026, as Pakistan lock horns with Sri Lanka in the opening encounter of the Tri-Nation Series 2026. The series, also featuring England, marks a significant build-up for all three teams ahead of the ICC Men's Cricket World Cup 2027, which will be jointly hosted by South Africa, Zimbabwe, and Namibia. Sri Lanka Announce Squad for Pakistan ODI Tri-Series 2026; Kusal Mendis Named Captain, Avishka Fernando Recalled.
The match is scheduled to begin at 1:00 PM Pakistan Standard Time (PKT) at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium, with the toss slated for 12:30 PM PKT. This seven-match ODI tournament will see each team play each other twice before the top two sides battle it out in the final on October 31 at Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore.
Where to Watch Pakistan vs Sri Lanka 1st ODI
For fans across different regions, here's a comprehensive guide on how to tune into the live action:
| Region | TV Channels | Streaming Platforms |
|---|---|---|
| Pakistan | PTV Sports HD, A Sports | Tapmad, Tamasha, PCB Live app |
| India | (No TV mentioned) | Veto App |
| United Kingdom | Sky Sports | NOW |
| USA | Willow TV | Sling TV (Desi Binge Plus or Dakshin Flex plans) |
| Australia | Fox Cricket | Kayo Sports |
PTV Sports has been confirmed as the official broadcaster for the series in Pakistan, ensuring widespread accessibility for local fans.
Team News and Form Guide
Pakistan, under the captaincy of Shaheen Shah Afridi, enters the series with confidence. Their 16-member squad boasts seasoned campaigners like Babar Azam and Fakhar Zaman, alongside promising talents such as Saim Ayub and Muhammad Ghazi Ghori. Haris Rauf and Naseem Shah will spearhead the pace attack, complemented by the spin options of Shadab Khan and Abrar Ahmed.
Sri Lanka, led by Kusal Mendis, will be eager to make an early impression. Pathum Nissanka has been ruled out due to a hamstring injury, with Lahiru Udara stepping in as his replacement. Key players like Avishka Fernando, Kamindu Mendis, and all-rounder Dasun Shanaka will be crucial for their challenge. England Announce Squad for Pakistan ODI Tri-Series 2026; Jos Buttler and Jofra Archer Sidelined as Adil Rashid, Sam Curran Return.
Head-to-Head (ODIs)
The rivalry between Pakistan and Sri Lanka in One-Day Internationals has been long-standing and competitive. Out of 160 matches played, Pakistan holds a clear advantage, having won 96 encounters. Sri Lanka has triumphed in 59 matches, with one match ending in a tie and four yielding no result.
This opening fixture promises to be a thrilling contest as both teams vie for an early lead in the Tri-Nation Series. With crucial World Cup preparations on the line, fans can expect a fiercely competitive match in Rawalpindi today.
(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Oct 18, 2026 01:10 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).