The three-match T20I series between Sri Lanka and Pakistan kicks off with a high-stakes series opener at the Rangiri Dambulla International Stadium. This series serves as the final dress rehearsal for both sides before the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup begins in February.
Pakistan, led by Salman Ali Agha, enters with a new-look squad as marquee players like Babar Azam and Shaheen Afridi are currently unavailable. Sri Lanka, captained by Dasun Shanaka, will look to leverage their formidable home record and spin-heavy attack to gain an early advantage in what is expected to be a closely fought contest between the two Asian rivals.
SL vs PAK, 1st T20I: Match Details
- Date and Time: January 7 (Wednesday); 7:00 pm IST / 1:30 pm GMT / 7:00 pm local
- Venue: Rangiri Dambulla International Stadium, Dambulla
SL vs PAK Head-to-Head Record in T20Is
Matches played: 27 | Pakistan won: 16 | Sri Lanka won: 11 | No results: 0
Rangiri Dambulla International Stadium Pitch Report
The Dambulla pitch is historically known to be a balanced surface, providing early assistance to seamers with the new ball while becoming increasingly conducive to spin as the game progresses. In T20Is at this venue, teams batting first have had a significant edge, winning six out of the nine matches played. The average first-innings score here is approximately 143, though a total of 170+ is considered highly competitive. As a night encounter, dew may become a factor in the second innings, potentially aiding the chasing side; however, the stadium’s history suggests that the captain winning the toss might still elect to bat first to put runs on the board and let the spinners dominate later.
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Sri Lanka vs Pakistan: Team dynamics and key players
Sri Lanka: The hosts are expected to field a near full-strength lineup, featuring the world-class spin duo of Wanindu Hasaranga and Maheesh Theekshana, who are lethal in these conditions. Their batting relies on the consistency of Pathum Nissanka and the explosive potential of Kusal Mendis. With a deep middle order and familiarity with the slow Dambulla track, Sri Lanka will aim to choke Pakistan’s scoring in the middle overs. Their disciplined bowling unit and home-ground advantage make them a tough side to break down.
Pakistan: In the absence of several senior stars, the responsibility falls on skipper Salman Ali Agha and the explosive Saim Ayub. The return of all-rounder Shadab Khan after surgery is a massive boost, providing both a wicket-taking option and lower-order power. Sahibzada Farhan, currently Pakistan’s highest-ranked T20I batter, enters the series in peak form. The pace battery, led by Naseem Shah, will be critical in the powerplay to disrupt Sri Lanka’s top order before the spinners take over.
SL vs PAK, 1st T20I: Today’s Match Prediction
Case 1:
- Sri Lanka wins the toss and bats first
- Sri Lanka powerplay score: 45-55 (6 overs)
- Sri Lanka total score: 165-180
Case 2:
- Pakistan wins the toss and bats first
- Pakistan powerplay score: 50-60 (6 overs)
- Pakistan total score: 155-170
Match result: Sri Lanka to win the contest
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