SL vs PAK Match Analysis
The 1st T20I of the Pakistan tour of Sri Lanka is set at the Rangiri Dambulla International Stadium, a venue known for its tactical complexity. With an evening start and a fresh series narrative, this match carries early momentum value for both sides.
Sri Lanka arrived with a mixed recent record of L L W W L, reflecting a team still searching for rhythm. Their most recent outing against Pakistan in the T20I Tri-Series final ended in a six-wicket defeat, a result that will linger. However, playing at home under familiar conditions offers SL a chance to reset, refocus, and leverage their spin-heavy resources.
Pakistan, by contrast, entered with stronger momentum at W W W L W. Their confidence stems from that very Tri-Series final win at Rawalpindi, where they chased efficiently. With a relatively settled core and flexible all-round options, PAK look tactically prepared, especially if conditions reward disciplined bowling and adaptable batting.
Sri Lanka vs Pakistan Match Details
Match | Sri Lanka vs Pakistan | 1st T20I | Pakistan tour of Sri Lanka 2026 |
|---|---|
Date | 07/01/2026 (Wednesday) |
Time | BDT 7:30 PM / PKT 6:30 PM / INR 7:00 PM |
Format | T20 |
Venue | Rangiri Dambulla International Stadium |
Recent performance | Sri Lanka – L L W W L, Pakistan – W W W L W |
Live Streaming Details | Click here to watch the SL vs PAK Live Stream on Sports Live Hub (SLH) |
Rangiri Dambulla International Stadium Pitch Report
Rangiri Dambulla International Stadium
The Dambulla surface traditionally favors bowlers, particularly early seam movement followed by increasing assistance for spinners as the match progresses. With an average first-innings score around 142, this is not a batting paradise. Teams that adapt quickly, rotate strike against spin, and manage risk during the middle overs generally hold the advantage.
Weather Report
Cloudy conditions are expected in Dambulla on January 7, with a moderate chance of light rain. While temperatures should remain manageable, interruptions could influence momentum. Dew is not expected to be heavy, but any moisture later in the evening could slightly ease batting second, making toss decisions marginally significant.
SL vs PAK Head-to-Head Records
Matches Played | 24 |
|---|---|
SL Won | 14 |
PAK Won | 10 |
Tied | 0 |
No Result | 0 |
First-ever Fixture | September 16, 2007 |
Most-recent Fixture | November 29, 2025 |
Sri Lanka vs Pakistan Team Preview & Squads
Sri Lanka
Dasun Shanaka’s leadership remains central to SL’s approach. As captain and key all-rounder, his dual role adds balance but also pressure. Shanaka’s challenge will be managing resources smartly on a pitch that demands patience rather than power-hitting bravado.
Sri Lanka’s batting revolves around Kusal Mendis at the top, supported by a mix of experience and experimentation. The presence of players like Pathum Nissanka, Charith Asalanka, and Kamil Mishara suggests intent to blend stability with aggression. However, inconsistency has been their recurring issue, especially when early wickets fall.
Bowling is SL’s comparative strength. Wanindu Hasaranga leads a versatile spin attack, backed by Maheesh Theekshana and Jeffrey Vandersay, while Matheesha Pathirana and Dushmantha Chameera provide pace options. The all-round depth, including Kamindu Mendis and Dunith Wellalage, gives Sri Lanka tactical flexibility if they read conditions correctly.
Sri Lanka Squads
Sri Lanka
Dasun Shanaka (c), Pathum Nissanka, Kusal Mendis, Kamil Mishara, Kusal Perera, Dhananjaya de Silva, Charith Asalanka, Kamindu Mendis, Wanindu Hasaranga, Maheesh Theekshana, Matheesha Pathirana, Nuwan Thushara, Dushmantha Chameera, Dunith Wellalage, Jeffrey Vandersay, Eshan Malinga
Pakistan
Salman Agha steps in as captain with a reputation for calm decision-making and adaptability. His leadership style suits T20 cricket, where flexibility often outweighs rigid plans. Managing a squad rich in all-rounders will be his primary task.
Pakistan’s batting unit is built around controlled aggression. Sahibzada Farhan and Saim Ayub offer attacking intent at the top, while Fakhar Zaman provides experience in navigating pressure situations. The middle order, featuring Abdul Samad and Usman Khan, is designed for acceleration rather than consolidation.
Bowling-wise, PAK possesses a balanced mix. Faheem Ashraf’s role as a seam-bowling all-rounder is crucial, especially on a surface offering early movement. Spin options like Mohammad Nawaz, Shadab Khan, and Abrar Ahmed add control in the middle overs, while Naseem Shah leads the pace attack with precision rather than raw speed.
Pakistan Squads
Pakistan
Salman Agha (C), Abdul Samad, Abrar Ahmed, Faheem Ashraf, Fakhar Zaman, Khawaja Nafay, Mohammad Nawaz, Mohammad Wasim, Naseem Shah, Sahibzada Farhan, Saim Ayub, Salman Mirza, Shadab Khan, Usman Khan, Usman Tariq
SL vs PAK Prediction
Event | Sri Lanka | Pakistan |
|---|---|---|
Toss Winner | Sri Lanka | – |
Player of the Match | – | Saim Ayub |
Top Run Scorer | Kamil Mishara | Saim Ayub |
Top Wicket Taker | Wanindu Hasaranga | Faheem Ashraf |
Most Sixes | Kamil Mishara | Saim Ayub |
Predicted Score | 150+ | 160+ |
Win Probability | 48% | 52% |
According to cricket analysts, Pakistan have a 52% chance of Winning.
Disclaimer: This cricket prediction reflects the author’s personal insights and analysis. We encourage readers to review the points shared and draw their own conclusions.
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