SL vs PAK Match Analysis
The third T20I at Rangiri Dambulla International Stadium arrives at a decisive moment in the Pakistan tour of Sri Lanka. A night fixture, humid conditions, and a surface known to slow down late in the game set the stage for a tactical contest rather than a pure hitting exhibition.
Sri Lanka enter with mixed recent momentum (W W L L A) and a clear point to prove after their loss in the opening T20I. Chasing a modest 129, Pakistan finished the job with 20 balls remaining, underlining how little room for error SL allowed themselves. Expect a sharper intent from the hosts, especially in the powerplay and through their spin-heavy middle overs.
Pakistan’s form line (W L W W A) reflects a side comfortable in tight scenarios. The first T20I showcased their composure: controlled batting, intelligent use of all-rounders, and efficient death-overs management. With match-winners in both disciplines and tactical flexibility, PAK arrive as marginal favorites, but not without vulnerabilities on a surface that increasingly rewards patience.
Sri Lanka vs Pakistan Match Details
Match | Sri Lanka vs Pakistan | 3rd T20I | Pakistan tour of Sri Lanka 2026 |
Date | 11/01/2026 (Sunday) |
Time | BDT 7:30 PM / PKT 6:30 PM / INR 7:00 PM |
Format | T20 |
Venue | Rangiri Dambulla International Stadium |
Recent performance | Sri Lanka – W W L L A |
Live Streaming Details | Click here to watch the Live Stream on Sports Live Hub (SLH) |
Rangiri Dambulla International Stadium Pitch Report
Rangiri Dambulla International Stadium
The Dambulla surface traditionally offers a balanced contest early before slowing as the match progresses. Batters who rely on timing rather than brute force tend to prosper, while spinners and cutters become increasingly effective in the middle and death overs. First-innings totals in the 150–165 range often create competitive contests, provided bowling units maintain discipline.
Weather Report
Humid conditions are expected with temperatures around 28°C in the afternoon, easing to 21–22°C in the evening. The perceived temperature will remain higher due to moisture in the air, and scattered rain remains a possibility. While dew could marginally aid chasing, the humidity also encourages slower pitch behavior, reinforcing the importance of spin control and smart pace variation.
SL vs PAK Head-to-Head Records
Matches Played | 28 |
SL Won | 11 |
PAK Won | 17 |
Tied | 0 |
No Result | 0 |
First-ever Fixture | September 16, 2007 |
Most-recent Fixture | January 9, 2026 |
Sri Lanka vs Pakistan Team Preview & Squads
Sri Lanka
Dasun Shanaka’s leadership will be under scrutiny. Known for backing attacking cricket, he now faces the tactical challenge of managing a bowling attack built around spin and variations. After conceding a chase that never looked threatened in the first T20I, Shanaka’s on-field decisions, particularly field placements and bowling changes, will be critical.
Batting-wise, SL possess technically adept players who thrive when they control tempo. Janith Liyanage stands out as the designated impact batter, capable of accelerating without reckless shot selection. Support from Charith Asalanka, Kusal Mendis, and Pathum Nissanka must translate into stable platforms rather than brief cameos, especially against Pakistan’s disciplined middle-overs bowling.
The bowling unit is anchored by Maheesh Theekshana’s mystery spin, complemented by Wanindu Hasaranga’s all-round threat. Dushmantha Chameera and Matheesha Pathirana offer pace options, but on this surface, variations and control matter more than raw speed. If Sri Lanka can strangle scoring between overs 7–15, they can force Pakistan into less comfortable endgame scenarios.
Sri Lanka Squads
Sri Lanka Squads
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 emphasized adaptability and resource management. Pakistan’s approach in the first T20I was clinical rather than flamboyant, using match-ups and rotating bowlers effectively. That strategic calm gives PAK an edge in pressure situations, particularly on slower tracks.
With the bat, Sahibzada Farhan leads the scoring blueprint. Supported by Fakhar Zaman, Saim Ayub, and Usman Khan, Pakistan’s top order has the ability to set tempo early before consolidating. The key is their capacity to avoid stagnation against spin, a test they passed in the opener by pacing the chase intelligently rather than forcing shots.
Bowling remains Pakistan’s decisive weapon. Salman Mirza’s accuracy and variations make him a constant threat, while Shadab Khan provides balance with both ball and bat. Mohammad Nawaz and Abrar Ahmed deepen the spin options, ensuring Pakistan can attack throughout the middle overs. If PAK maintain discipline at the death, they can neutralize Sri Lanka’s finishing plans.
Pakistan Squads
Pakistan Squads
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 | Sri Lanka | – |
Player of the Match | – | Salman Mirza |
Top Run Scorer | Janith Liyanage | Sahibzada Farhan |
Top Wicket Taker | Maheesh Theekshana | Salman Mirza |
Most Sixes | Janith Liyanage | Sahibzada Farhan |
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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