Sri Lanka will face Pakistan in the second T20I of the three-match series at the Rangiri Dambulla International Stadium on Friday, January 9.
Pakistan lead the series 1-0 after a convincing six-wicket win in the opening match and will be aiming to seal the series, while Sri Lanka must win to stay alive.
Match Details (2nd T20I, Pakistan tour of Sri Lanka 2026)
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Match: Sri Lanka vs Pakistan, 2nd T20I
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Date: Friday, January 09, 2026
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Venue: Rangiri Dambulla International Stadium, Dambulla
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Time: 7:00 PM IST, 6:30 PM PST, 1:30 PM GMT
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Series Status: Pakistan lead 1-0
Team Overviews
Sri Lanka had a disappointing start to the series as their batting unit failed to capitalize on promising starts in the first T20I. While Janith Liyanage showed composure at the crease, the lack of partnerships and a collapse in the middle overs restricted the hosts to a below-par total of 128. With a T20 World Cup at home approaching, Sri Lanka will be desperate to bounce back and regain confidence. Much will depend on the top order, especially Pathum Nissanka and Kusal Mendis, to provide a strong platform.
Pakistan, in contrast, were clinical in all departments. Their bowlers, led by Salman Mirza, kept Sri Lanka under pressure throughout the innings. The chase was handled calmly, with the batting unit showing maturity to finish the match with 20 balls to spare. Under the leadership of Salman Ali Agha, Pakistan look well-settled and will be keen to continue their momentum and clinch the series with another win.
Head-to-Head Record
Pakistan hold the advantage in T20Is between the two sides. Out of 25 matches played, Pakistan have won 15, while Sri Lanka have emerged victorious on 10 occasions. The rivalry has often produced close contests, but Pakistan have enjoyed greater consistency in recent years.
Pitch Report – Rangiri Dambulla International Stadium
The Dambulla pitch has traditionally favored teams batting first, with only four out of ten T20 matches at the venue won by chasing sides. The surface tends to slow down as the match progresses, assisting spinners. However, dew can play a significant role in night games, making chasing easier. Pakistan’s successful chase in the first T20I suggests that bowling first is also a viable option, depending on conditions at toss time.
Probable Playing XIs
Sri Lanka: Pathum Nissanka, Kamil Mishara, Kusal Mendis (wk), Dhananjaya de Silva, Charith Asalanka (c), Dasun Shanaka, Janith Liyanage, Wanindu Hasaranga, Dushmantha Chameera, Maheesh Theekshana, Nuwan Thushara
Pakistan: Sahibzada Farhan, Saim Ayub, Salman Ali Agha (c), Fakhar Zaman, Usman Khan (wk), Shadab Khan, Mohammad Nawaz, Faheem Ashraf, Mohammad Wasim, Salman Mirza, Abrar Ahmed
Key Players to Watch
Pathum Nissanka remains Sri Lanka’s key batter. Despite failing in the first match, his recent form suggests he can play a match-defining knock. For Pakistan, pacer Salman Mirza has emerged as a major threat, using pace and discipline to trouble batters, as reflected in his impressive figures of 3 for 18 in the series opener.
Live Streaming and Broadcast Details
The second T20I will be streamed live on the FanCode app and website in India. In Pakistan, the match will be available on official sports channels and their digital platforms. Viewers in Sri Lanka can watch the game on licensed local sports broadcasters and streaming apps, while global audiences can follow through region-specific official streaming services carrying international cricket.
Probable Scenarios and Match Prediction
If Sri Lanka bat first and post a competitive total, their spinners could control the middle overs. Pakistan, however, have shown strong chasing ability. Considering recent trends and the impact of dew, the chasing team is expected to have an advantage.
