Extra Time podcast episode 9: Pakistan's bowling gives them edge over Sri Lanka in UAE cricket Tests

Paul Radley, Osman Samiuddin and Chitrabhanu Kadalayil discuss the upcoming series, between two inexperienced sides led by yet unproven captains, and why it has not garnered as much excitement as it should.

New Test captain Sarfraz Ahmed is on a high after having led Pakistan to the Champions Trophy title this year. EPA

As Pakistan get ready to host Sri Lanka in the first of two Tests, starting at Zayed Cricket Stadium in Abu Dhabi on Thursday, there is little excitement being generated in the UAE. Which is strange considering the interesting narratives the series has to offer.

Both teams are largely inexperienced and are being led by yet unproven captains, in Pakistan's Sarfraz Ahmed and Dinesh Chandimal of Sri Lanka. There are doubts on the part of the Sri Lankan players over whether the final match of the bilateral series - a Twenty20 international - should be played in Lahore.

The series will also see new International Cricket Council regulations being enforced for the first time.

Staff writer Paul Radley and ESPNCricinfo's UAE correspondent Osman Samiuddin share their thoughts on these story lines with Assistant Sports Editor Chitrabhanu Kadalayil, before predicting the outcome of the Tests.

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