Sri Lanka vs Pakistan T20I Match Preview – 11 January 2026

Match Details

• Teams: Sri Lanka vs Pakistan
• Format: T20I (3rd T20I of the series)
• Venue: Dambulla International Cricket Stadium, Sri Lanka
• Date: 11 January 2026, Sunday
• Time: 13:30 GMT / 7:00 PM IST

Series Context

The 3rd T20I between Sri Lanka and Pakistan is a crucial encounter in the ongoing Pakistan tour of Sri Lanka. The series is currently level at 1-1 after the first two matches, with the second match being abandoned due to weather conditions. In the first T20I, Pakistan claimed a convincing 6-wicket win over Sri Lanka, chasing down 128 in just 16.4 overs.

Team Form and Key Players

Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka have shown glimpses of form, particularly with the bat, in the first match of the series. However, their bowling unit will be under pressure to perform consistently on a pitch that often favors the bowlers in Dambulla. Key players to watch out for include:

• Charith Asalanka: The middle-order batsman has been in good touch and could be the key to building a strong total.
• Lahiru Kumara: The leg-spinner has been effective in tight situations and could play a vital role with the ball.
• Dushmantha Chameera: His ability to swing the new ball could be a big threat to the Pakistani batsmen.

Pakistan

Pakistan made a strong statement in the first match with a dominant chase. Their explosive batting lineup, led by the likes of Babar Azam and Muhammad Rizwan, has the potential to post or chase big totals with ease. The pace duo of Haris Rauf and Mohammad Wasim Jr. will look to exploit the conditions and pick up crucial wickets.

• Babar Azam: The Pakistani captain is in excellent form and is expected to lead from the front with the bat.
• Rizwan: The wicketkeeper-batsman is the cornerstone of Pakistan’s middle order and has been in sensational touch.
• Haris Rauf: The left-arm pacer can trouble any batsman with his pace and accuracy.

Venue Insights

The Dambulla International Stadium is known for its spin-friendly surface, especially in the later stages of the match. While the initial overs may favor the pacers, the middle and death overs often see spinners coming into play. This could be a decisive factor in how both teams approach their respective innings.

Match Prediction

The third T20I promises to be a tightly contested affair, with both teams eager to take the series lead. Sri Lanka will be looking to capitalize on home advantage and the nature of the pitch, while Pakistan will aim to continue their winning momentum from the first match.

Prediction: Pakistan are slightly favored to win the third T20I, provided they avoid early wickets and maintain their aggressive momentum. However, Sri Lanka have the potential to cause an upset if their key players deliver under pressure.

How to Watch

• Live Score: Follow live updates and ball-by-ball commentary on cricket news platforms.
• Broadcast: Confirm local broadcast details for live TV coverage.

Get ready for an exciting clash between two of the most passionate cricketing nations in the world.
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