SL vs PAK Match Analysis
The second T20I at Rangiri Dambulla arrives at a pivotal moment in the series. With evening conditions expected and tactical match-ups becoming clearer, both sides understand the importance of momentum before the tour narrative fully crystallizes.
Sri Lanka enter this fixture after a subdued showing in the opening match, where they were restricted to 128 and struggled to control Pakistan’s chase. Despite flashes of stability in the middle order, their inability to dictate tempo with either bat or ball left them exposed. At home, they will aim for a more assertive powerplay and tighter spin control.
Pakistan, on the other hand, executed a disciplined and efficient performance in the first T20I, chasing down the target with six wickets in hand and twenty balls to spare. Their balance between aggression and composure, particularly through Shadab Khan’s all-round influence, allowed them to manage conditions expertly. Confidence, form, and clarity of roles currently sit in PAK’s favor.
Sri Lanka vs Pakistan Match Details
Match | Sri Lanka vs Pakistan | 2nd T20I | Pakistan tour of Sri Lanka 2026 |
|---|---|
Date | 09/01/2026 (Friday) |
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 W W L L, Pakistan – W W L W 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, Dambulla
The Dambulla surface is traditionally balanced, offering early grip for spinners while still allowing stroke-makers to score once set. However, the pitch tends to favor teams batting first, with deteriorating conditions making run chases increasingly challenging. As the game progresses, slower bowlers become decisive, turning timing into a premium and rewarding tactical variations.
Weather Report
Evening temperatures are expected to hover between 21°C and 22°C, creating comfortable playing conditions. There is no significant dew forecast, meaning bowlers should retain control of the ball throughout the match. The absence of heavy moisture reduces batting advantages under lights, placing a premium on disciplined bowling, fielding intensity, and strategic use of spin in the middle overs.
SL vs PAK Head-to-Head Records
Matches Played | 27 |
|---|---|
GG Won | 11 |
ADKR Won | 16 |
Tied | 0 |
No Result | 0 |
First-ever Fixture | September 17, 2007 |
Most-recent Fixture | January 7, 2026 |
Sri Lanka vs Pakistan Team Preview & Squads
Sri Lanka
Dasun Shanaka’s leadership remains central to Sri Lanka’s approach, particularly in recalibrating after the opening defeat. As a captain, Shanaka’s ability to manage bowling changes and stabilize momentum in tight phases will be under scrutiny. His side must display greater composure, especially when defending totals on a surface that rewards calculated execution rather than emotional bursts.
From a batting perspective, Sri Lanka’s structure is built around technical anchors and adaptable middle-order contributors. Janith Liyanage has been identified as the key batter, expected to anchor the innings while still providing acceleration. Support from Pathum Nissanka, Charith Asalanka, and Kusal Mendis will be crucial if SL are to build a defendable first-innings platform rather than rely on late recoveries.
Bowling and all-round depth remains Sri Lanka’s most versatile weapon. Wanindu Hasaranga continues to be the tactical fulcrum, offering wicket-taking threat and economy. Dhananjaya de Silva’s dual role becomes particularly important on a surface favoring spin, while pace options like Matheesha Pathirana and Nuwan Thushara must deliver precision in the death overs rather than raw speed alone.
Sri Lanka Squads
Sri Lanka
Dasun Shanaka, Charith Asalanka, Dushmantha Chameera, Dhananjaya de Silva, Wanindu Hasaranga, Dushan Hemantha, Janith Liyanage, Eshan Malinga, Traveen Mathew, Kamindu Mendis, Kusal Mendis, Kamil Mishara, Pathum Nissanka, Matheesha Pathirana, Kusal Perera, Maheesh Theekshana, Nuwan Thushara, Dunith Wellalage
Pakistan
Salman Agha’s captaincy has brought structure and flexibility to Pakistan’s tactical framework. His calm handling of pressure situations and efficient rotation of resources were evident in the first T20I. Leadership continuity allows PAK to maintain their strategic identity, disciplined with the ball and selective with batting aggression.
Pakistan’s batting order has both explosiveness and adaptability. Sahibzada Farhan is the designated impact batter, expected to dominate the powerplay and set early intent. With support from Fakhar Zaman, Saim Ayub, and Usman Khan, PAK possess the depth to recover from early wickets without losing momentum. Their ability to chase efficiently rather than recklessly reflects a mature tactical mindset.
In bowling, Pakistan’s advantage lies in control and variety. Abrar Ahmed leads the spin department with precision, while Shadab Khan’s all-round contributions provide tactical flexibility. Salman Mirza’s recent effectiveness adds another wicket-taking dimension, particularly in middle overs. Combined with disciplined pace from Naseem Shah and Mohammad Wasim, PAK’s attack is well suited to Dambulla’s evolving conditions.
Pakistan Squads
Pakistan
Salman Agha, 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 | – | Pakistan |
Player of the Match | – | Sahibzada Farhan |
Top Run Scorer | Janith Liyanage | Sahibzada Farhan |
Top Wicket Taker | Dhananjaya de Silva | Salman Mirza |
Most Sixes | Janith Liyanage | Sahibzada Farhan |
Predicted Score | 150+ | 160+ |
Win Probability | 47% | 53% |
According to cricket analysts, Pakistan have a 53% 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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