Sri Lanka vs Pakistan Prediction & Match Preview – 1st T20I, Dambulla

Sri Lanka and Pakistan begin a three-match T20I series in Dambulla, and the hosts will rely on a batting group that includes captain Charith Asalanka, Kusal Mendis, Kusal Perera, Dasun Shanaka and Kamindu Mendis. Pathum Nissanka has been their standout since January 2025, with 611 runs in 17 T20 matches at an average of 38.18, including one century and four fifties.

In the bowling department, Mahesh Theekshana, Dushmantha Chameera, Wanindu Hasaranga, Nuwan Thushara and Shanaka are expected to take the key wickets. Chameera leads Sri Lanka’s T20 bowling charts over that period with 22 wickets in 14 matches.

Pakistan are led by Salman Agha, with Shaheen Afridi and Babar Azam missing because they are playing in the Big Bash League. The batting falls to Sahibzada Farhan, Saim Ayub, Agha, Usman Khan and Fakhar Zaman, and Farhan has scored 771 runs in 26 matches since January 2025 at an average of 30.84 with seven fifties. Mohammad Nawaz has been their leading bowler with 36 wickets at an economy of 6.56, and he is supported by Abrar Ahmed, Salman Mirza, Naseem Shah and Usman Tariq.

Probable playing XI

Pitch report

The Rangiri Dambulla International Stadium generally offers a balanced pitch. It plays true early, letting batters settle, while seamers can get movement with the new ball, particularly if there is moisture. As the game goes on the surface slows and helps spinners, which makes the middle overs important. T20 totals of 140–160 are common here, although a well-timed innings can push higher. Toss decisions can matter, since batting first uses the early conditions and bowling first lets a side exploit spin later.

Weather

Around 7:00 pm local time on 7 January the forecast is for warm, mostly cloudy conditions at about 21–22 °C. The chance of significant rain is low, though humidity is likely to be high.

Expected scores

• 1st innings: 150–165
• 2nd innings: 145–160