The opening match of the Sri Lanka vs Pakistan T20I series will be played at the Rangiri Dambulla International Cricket Stadium, Dambulla, on Wednesday, January 7, 2026. Both teams enter the contest with recent T20 experience, and Pakistan slightly ahead on form, making this a closely watched series opener.
The match is scheduled for January 7, 2026, with the first ball to be bowled at 7:00 PM IST, 6:30 PM PST, and 1:30 PM GMT.
Match Details
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Match: Sri Lanka vs Pakistan, 1st T20I
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Series: Pakistan tour of Sri Lanka, 2026
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Date: Wednesday, January 7, 2026
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Time: 7:00 PM IST, 6:30 PM PST, 1:30 PM GMT
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Venue: Rangiri Dambulla International Cricket Stadium, Dambulla
Team Overviews
Sri Lanka will be keen to start the home series on a positive note under the leadership of Charith Asalanka. Playing in familiar conditions, the hosts will rely on their balanced squad that includes a mix of experienced campaigners and young match-winners. Sri Lanka have been inconsistent in recent T20 outings, but home advantage and knowledge of conditions could work in their favor.
Pakistan, led by Salman Agha for this series, arrive with confidence after defeating Sri Lanka in the T20 tri-series final in Rawalpindi. Despite missing key players like Babar Azam and Shaheen Afridi due to their commitments in Australia, Pakistan possess enough depth to challenge the hosts. Their recent performances in the shortest format suggest they are capable of adapting quickly to subcontinent conditions.
Key Players to Watch
For Sri Lanka, Pathum Nissanka has been the standout batter in the T20 format over the past year. Since January 2025, he has scored 611 runs in 17 matches at an impressive average of 38.18, including a century and four half-centuries. In the bowling department, Dushmantha Chameera has been highly effective, picking up 22 wickets in 14 matches at an economy of 7.39.
Pakistan will depend heavily on opener Sahibzada Farhan, who has been their most consistent batter in T20s since January 2025. He has accumulated 771 runs in 26 matches, including seven half-centuries. With the ball, Mohammad Nawaz has been Pakistan’s most reliable bowler, claiming 36 wickets in 26 matches at an economy rate of just 6.56.
Head-to-Head Record
Sri Lanka and Pakistan have faced each other 27 times in T20 internationals. Pakistan hold a slight edge with 16 wins, while Sri Lanka have won 11 matches. In the last four encounters, Pakistan have emerged victorious on three occasions, highlighting their recent dominance in this rivalry.
Pitch Report
The Rangiri Dambulla International Cricket Stadium is known for offering a balanced surface. While batters can score freely once settled, bowlers who vary their pace and use the conditions smartly often enjoy success. The average first-innings score at this venue in T20Is is around 143 runs. Teams batting first have won six of the last nine matches played here, making winning the toss and batting first a preferred option.
Weather Conditions
The weather forecast for match day suggests clear skies with light winds. Temperatures are expected to hover around 20–27°C during the day and evening, with no significant threat of rain during match hours, ensuring an uninterrupted contest.
Probable Playing XIs
Sri Lanka:
Charith Asalanka (c), Kusal Mendis (wk), Pathum Nissanka, Kusal Perera, Dasun Shanaka, Kamindu Mendis, Janith Liyanage, Wanindu Hasaranga, Mahesh Theekshana, Nuwan Thushara, Dushmantha Chameera
Pakistan:
Salman Agha (c), Usman Khan (wk), Sahibzada Farhan, Saim Ayub, Fakhar Zaman, Shadab Khan, Mohammad Nawaz, Abrar Ahmed, Salman Mirza, Naseem Shah, Usman Tariq
Probable Match Scenarios
If Sri Lanka bat first and post a total around 150–160, their spinners could put Pakistan under pressure in the middle overs. However, Pakistan’s batting depth and stronger recent form make them dangerous while chasing. Early wickets for Sri Lanka will be crucial, while Pakistan will look to control the game through spin in the middle overs.
Match Prediction
Based on recent performances, squad balance, and momentum, Pakistan appear slightly ahead going into this contest. If they adapt quickly to conditions, Pakistan are expected to register a comfortable win in the series opener.