The action shifts to a crucial second T20I as Sri Lanka host Pakistan at the Rangiri Dambulla International Stadium. With Pakistan taking a 1-0 lead after a comprehensive six-wicket victory, the hosts are under immense pressure to level the series. Sri Lanka’s batting faltered in the opener, and they must find a way to counter Pakistan’s disciplined attack. Pakistan, brimming with confidence, will aim to seal the series with another clinical performance, setting up a fascinating contest between a home side fighting for survival and a visiting team on the cusp of a series win.
PAK vs SL Win Probability
*Favorites by form and leading run-scorer advantage.
SL vs PAK Batting Tips
Sri Lanka vs Pakistan, 2nd T20I Match Details
| Match | Pakistan Tour of Sri Lanka 2026, 2nd T20I |
| Date | Friday, 09 January 2026 |
| Time | 7:00 PM IST |
| Venue | Rangiri Dambulla International Cricket Stadium, Dambulla |
| Live Streaming (TV) | NA |
| Live Streaming (Mobile) | FanCode & YouTube (Pro Sports) |
SL vs PAK Match Prediction & Analysis (Who Will Win?)
Pakistan are slight favorites to win the match and clinch the series. Their performance in the first game was superior in all departments; bowling with discipline, fielding with energy, and chasing with calm assurance. Sri Lanka, while having the home advantage, need significant improvement, particularly from their top order. The confidence and momentum are firmly with Pakistan, making them the more likely side to handle the pressure of a series-deciding game and emerge victorious.
SL vs PAK Head to Head (T20Is)
| Total Matches | 28 |
| SL Won | 11 |
| PAK Won | 17 |
| No Result | 00 |
SL vs PAK Teams Preview (Top Players to Watch)
Sri Lanka
The hosts need their experienced players to step up. Pathum Nissanka must lead from the front at the top. The middle order, featuring Charith Asalanka and the explosive Janith Liyanage, needs to convert starts. Their bowling, with the spin of Wanindu Hasaranga and Maheesh Theekshana and the pace of Dushmantha Chameera, remains their strength but needs more runs to defend.
SL Probable Playing XI:
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.
Top Player to watch on: Wanindu Hasaranga – His leg-spin and aggressive batting lower down the order can be a game-changer.
Pakistan
Pakistan’s team combination worked perfectly. The openers Sahibzada Farhan and Saim Ayub provided a solid platform. The experience of Fakhar Zaman and the finishing skills of Shadab Khan add depth. Their bowling was the highlight, with Salman Mirza leading a disciplined attack well-supported by spinners Mohammad Nawaz and Abrar Ahmed.
PAK Probable Playing XI:
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.
Top Player to watch on: Salman Mirza & Fakhar Zaman.
SL vs PAK Weather & Pitch Report
The pitch at the Rangiri Dambulla International Stadium generally favors teams batting first, as seen in the historical record (6 wins for teams batting first in last 10 matches). However, dew can be a factor in the second innings, making chasing easier under lights. The surface is typically slow and aids spin bowlers as the game progresses. The team winning the toss faces a tricky decision between setting a target or chasing with the dew factor in mind.
SL vs PAK Fantasy Teams
- Wicket-keeper: Kusal Mendis (SL), Usman Khan (PAK)
- Batter: Pathum Nissanka (SL), Fakhar Zaman (PAK), Sahibzada Farhan (PAK)
- All-rounder: Wanindu Hasaranga (SL), Shadab Khan (PAK)
- Bowler: Salman Mirza (PAK), Dushmantha Chameera (SL), Abrar Ahmed (PAK), Maheesh Theekshana (SL)
Pro Tip: Always check your fantasy team after the playing 11 is announced. It usually happens about half an hour before the match starts. So, after 6:30 PM (IST), review the playing 11 and compare it with your fantasy team to make sure everything matches.
Disclaimer: These predictions and fantasy tips are based on analysis, research, and the author’s understanding of the game. They are meant for entertainment purposes only. Note: Fantasy gaming should be engaged with responsibly and for fun. We do not endorse or participate in any illegal activities, including real-money gaming that violates Indian law, such as the new Promotion and Regulation of Online Gaming Bill, 2025. We are not responsible for any financial loss.
