Captain Azhar Ali says Pakistan's first Test match on home soil since 2009 is a moment to rejoice for the whole country.

Pakistan host Sri Lanka in a two-match series, starting on Wednesday, the nation's first Tests on home soil since the militant attack on Sri Lanka's team bus in Lahore.

The return: Pakistan fans celebrate a return of Test cricket to their country. Credit:AP

Other teams have refused to travel to Pakistan due to security concerns and the side were forced to play home Tests in the United Arab Emirates.

"It's a moment to rejoice, not only for the players but the whole Pakistan nation," Azhar said.