Pakistan vs Sri Lanka Prediction & Match Preview – T20I Tri-Series

Pakistan take on Sri Lanka in the sixth match of the 2025 Pakistan T20I Tri-Series, with Rawalpindi hosting on Thursday evening. The ground tends to reward positive batting, so both sides should be looking to make full use of the powerplay.

Pakistan’s probable batting order features Sahibzada Farhan, Babar Azam, Saim Ayub and Fakhar Zaman, with Faheem Ashraf and Mohammad Nawaz adding lower-order options. Shaheen Afridi leads a pace attack supported by Salman Mirza, and Abrar Ahmed offers spin. Their top order is capable of rapid scoring, which is why our preview leans towards the hosts.

Sri Lanka counter with Pathum Nissanka, Kusal Mendis, Kusal Perera and Bhanuka Rajapaksa, plus Dasun Shanaka and Kamindu Mendis in the middle order. Wanindu Hasaranga and Maheesh Theekshana supply spin, while Dushmantha Chameera, Nuwan Thushara and Eshan Malinga share the new ball. Their depth keeps them competitive if early wickets are avoided.

The opening three or four overs and the death overs are likely to decide the result, with spinners and medium-pacers aiming to control the middle phase between overs six and fifteen.

Probable playing XI

Pitch report

Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium generally favours batters, with good bounce and true carry, and limited-overs games there have often been high-scoring with chases common. Seamers may find some early movement, especially under cloud, before the surface flattens out. Spinners can come into play as it slows slightly, and teams that build partnerships tend to prosper.

Weather

By 6:00 pm local time on 27 November, Rawalpindi should be mild and clear with temperatures falling to around 16°C, light haze early on and light winds.

Expected scores

• 1st innings: 165–175
• 2nd innings: 160–170