Sri Lanka and Pakistan are set to renew their rivalry as they face off in the first T20I of the three-match series at the Rangiri Dambulla International Stadium on Wednesday, January 7, 2026. With the T20 World Cup just weeks away, both sides will look to fine-tune their combinations and build momentum ahead of the marquee event.
Match Details: SL vs PAK
| Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Series | Pakistan Tour of Sri Lanka 2026 |
| Match | Sri Lanka vs Pakistan, 1st T20I |
| Date | Wednesday, 7 January 2026 |
| Time | 07:00 PM IST |
| Toss Time | 06:30 PM IST |
| Venue | Rangiri Dambulla International Stadium |
| City | Dambulla |
| Live Streaming | FanCode |
Match Preview
The two teams last crossed paths during a T20I tri-series in Pakistan in November 2025, which also featured Zimbabwe. Pakistan eventually lifted the trophy despite mixed results in the league stage, while Sri Lanka endured an inconsistent campaign, including a surprise defeat to Zimbabwe.
Sri Lanka will take confidence from playing at home, where conditions traditionally suit their spin-heavy attack. With experienced names like Wanindu Hasaranga, Maheesh Theekshana, and Charith Asalanka, the hosts appear well equipped to exploit the Dambulla surface. The leadership of Dasun Shanaka and a solid top order give Sri Lanka a balanced look.
Pakistan, meanwhile, arrive with a relatively new-look squad, missing several senior players including Babar Azam, Shaheen Afridi, Haris Rauf, and Mohammad Rizwan. This series presents a golden opportunity for youngsters and fringe players to stake a claim before World Cup selection decisions are finalized. Captain Salman Agha will be keen to guide his side through what could be a challenging away assignment.
Head-to-Head Record (T20Is): SL vs PAK
| Team | Matches Won |
|---|---|
| Sri Lanka (SL) | 11 |
| Pakistan (PAK) | 16 |
| No Result / Tied | 0 |
Pakistan hold a historical edge, but Sri Lanka’s home advantage could play a decisive role.
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Weather & Pitch Report: Rangiri Dambulla International Stadium
- Weather Report: Overcast conditions are expected in Dambulla on Wednesday evening, with passing showers possible. The temperature should hover around 25°C, while humidity levels could touch 75 percent, making it slightly challenging for players.
- Pitch Report: The Dambulla pitch is known to assist spinners, particularly in the second innings. Teams batting first have enjoyed success here, winning six of the last nine matches. With a highest first-innings score of 209 and a lowest total of 89, reading the conditions correctly will be crucial.
Probable Playing 11
Sri Lanka (SL) Playing 11
1. Pathum Nissanka, 2. Kusal Mendis (wk), 3. Kusal Perera, 4. Charith Asalanka, 5. Dasun Shanaka (c), 6. Wanindu Hasaranga, 7. Kamindu Mendis, 8 Maheesh Theekshana, 9. Eshan Malinga, 10. Matheesha Pathirana, 11. Dushmantha Chameera
Pakistan (PAK) Playing 11
1. Sahibzada Farhan, 2. Saim Ayub, 3. Fakhar Zaman, 4. Shadab Khan, 5. Salman Agha (c), 6. Usman Khan (wk), 7. Abdul Samad, 8. Mohammad Nawaz, 9. Faheem Ashraf, 10. Naseem Shah, 11. Mohammad Wasim Jr.
Who Will Win Today’s Match? (AI Prediction)
Sri Lanka appear better suited to the conditions, especially with their strong spin department and familiarity with the Dambulla surface. Pakistan’s relatively inexperienced lineup could struggle against quality spin, particularly if they bat second.
That said, Pakistan possess enough all-round depth to challenge the hosts if their top order fires early.
AI Match Prediction: Sri Lanka are favourites to win the 1st T20I against Pakistan.
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