Pakistan vs Sri Lanka Match Prediction 2026: Pakistan’s 2026 tour of Sri Lanka began with a comfortable 6-wicket victory in the first T20I in Dambulla, where they chased down the target of 129 runs in just 16.4 overs. Although the target was modest, Pakistan’s composed batting display showcased their organisational skills in T20 cricket. As the series moves to the second match, Sri Lanka will be eager to level the series, setting an excellent precedent for the T20I series for both teams.
With Pakistan leading the series 1-0, Sri Lanka’s home ground advantage, along with the depth of their batting and bowling attack, makes them a formidable opponent. A loss in the second match would put immense pressure on the home team, as it would give Pakistan a firm and unassailable 2-0 lead in the series. The outcome of the match is crucial for both teams and holds significant implications for the series.
Considering the history of the Dambulla track, we can expect it to be a well-balanced pitch. Historically, the Dambulla ground has been a suitable venue for both batsmen and bowlers, although spinners tend to get reasonable assistance. This is particularly relevant for fantasy players and analysts as the pitch history can provide a good indication of the strategies that both teams might employ. Also, the head-to-head record between the two teams has been quite close, adding to the excitement of the second T20I.
The second T20I promises to be an exciting encounter. The stakes are high, and both teams are determined to make their mark. Historically, Dambulla has been a good batting surface so that we can expect a run-fest. Will Pakistan continue their winning streak, or will Sri Lanka make a spectacular comeback? Stay tuned for predictions and fantasy tips for the second T20I between SL and PAK.
SL vs PAK 2nd T20I Match Preview
Excitement continues as Sri Lanka takes on Pakistan for the second time in the T20I series at the Rangiri Dambulla International Stadium in Dambulla on January 9, 2026, at 7:00 PM IST. After beating Sri Lanka 6 wickets to nil at the end of the first T20I on January 7, 2026, Pakistan gained the first series point and left the door wide open for Sri Lanka to level the series.
| Match Details | Information |
| Match | SL vs PAK 2nd T20I |
| Match No. | 2nd T20I |
| Date | 9 Jan 2026 |
| Time | 7:00 PM IST |
| Venue | Rangiri Dambulla International Stadium |
| Weather Forecast | Expected clear skies, 28°C |
| Where to Watch | TV Broadcast |
| First T20I Result | Sri Lanka 128 (19.2) vs Pakistan 129-4 (16.4) Pakistan won by 6 wickets |
In the first match, Sri Lanka batted first and set a score of 128, which Pakistan easily chased, finishing at 129-4 and winning in 16.4 overs. Pakistan’s chase was anchored by a steady partnership, ensuring they secured the win despite Sri Lanka’s best efforts in the field.
For the second match, Sri Lanka will need to reassess their batting depth and improve their bowling, while Pakistan will look to win again with the same middle and lower order they had in the last match.
The second T20I match will be more interesting than the last one. It is 28 degrees in Dambulla with no signs of rain, which will make the match exciting.
Sri Lanka vs Pakistan Match Prediction: Head-to-Head in T20I
T20I matches between Sri Lanka and Pakistan are always thrilling and jaw-dropping. As Pakistan and Sri Lanka prepare for the 2nd T20I match of the series to be played on January 9, 2026, in the Rangiri Dambulla International Stadium, let’s take a look at the previous encounters between the two teams, their recent matches played, and their current form.
Overall Record (24 Matches)
| Record | Sri Lanka | Pakistan |
|---|---|---|
| Matches Played | 24 | 24 |
| Won | 10 | 14 |
| Lost | 14 | 10 |
| No Result | 0 | 0 |
| Tied | 0 | 0 |
| Home Wins | 1 | 2 |
| Away Wins | 4 | 3 |
| Neutral Wins | 9 | 5 |
- Sri Lanka Wins: 10
- Neutral Ground Wins: Pakistan has a stronger record with 5 wins compared to Sri Lanka’s 9.
- Home Ground Wins: Both teams have won one game on home soil each.
Pakistan leads Sri Lanka 14-10 in their 24 T20I meetings to date. They have drawn no results. Both teams have experienced varying success at home and on neutral sites. While Sri Lanka and Pakistan have even results at home and neutral sites, Sri Lanka wins 9 to Pakistan’s five on neutral-site T20Is. Domestic win % is even, and Pakistan’s win % is better in away matches. This shows that for both teams, converting T20I matches on neutral sites will prove valuable.
Recent Head-to-Head: Last 10 T20Is
| Match No. | Date | Venue | Result |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Jan 7, 2026 | Dambulla | Pakistan won by 6 wickets |
| 2 | Dec 2025 | Colombo | Pakistan won by 4 wickets |
| 3 | Oct 2025 | Sharjah | Sri Lanka won by 7 runs |
| 4 | Sep 2025 | Karachi | Pakistan won by 5 wickets |
| 5 | Aug 2025 | Colombo | Sri Lanka won by 10 runs |
| 6 | Jun 2025 | Lahore | Pakistan won by 3 wickets |
| 7 | May 2025 | Kandy | Pakistan won by 6 wickets |
| 8 | Apr 2025 | Colombo | Sri Lanka won by 12 runs |
| 9 | Jan 2025 | Dubai | Pakistan won by 7 wickets |
| 10 | Dec 2024 | Karachi | Sri Lanka won by 8 runs |
In their last ten meetings, Punjab has won 6 matches, and Sri Lanka has won 4 matches, with their last meeting being on January 7, 2026, in which Punjab successfully chased a 129 target, scoring six wickets. Sri Lanka has once again shown a batting collapse in which they could only score a total of 128, which is far below the score needed to challenge Punjab’s batting line-up. The batting collapse shown in this match is once again a perfect example of Sri Lanka’s batting instability and proves to the world just how weak their batting is, and shows one of their main areas of focus in the next match.
Pakistan’s ability to chase remains an advantage for them. They have consistently showcased their fierce ability to manage pressure when the situation calls for target chases, and their performance in the first T20I against Sri Lanka further reaffirmed this fact. Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan have been exceptional with the bat and have provided stability and control in the chase for Pakistan.
Team Analysis for 2nd T20I
Disappointing batting collapses don’t often lead to positive results and Sri Lanka are no different. Some tactical changes are afoot in their batting line-up and more will be expected from middle-order batters. Kusal Perera, Charith Asalanka, and Dasun Shanaka, are expected to be the glue the builds the innings for the batters to set a defendable score for the bowlers.
In the meantime, Pakistan will look to continue with their dominant form. Shaheen Afridi, and the other bowlers, will capitalize on the batting weaknesses Sri Lanka have. Pakistan will enter the second T20I with the first-match confidence and their balanced squad will make them the favorites.
Prediction for 2nd T20I
The second T20I is set to be dominated by Pakistan. They have really come into form and have been very consistent. They have been very consistent for both batting and bowling, specifically for run chases. However, this form is almost guaranteed to change for Sri Lanka. They will rely on their batting to be able to perform. If they do post a competitive score, and are able to place pressure on Pakistan to chase the score, they could definitely change the game and perform better than anticipated.
Rangiri Dambulla Stadium Venue and Pitch Analysis
The Dambulla International Stadium features one of the more unique playing conditions of the International Cricket venues. It is iconic to the Dambulla Region and features an almost amphitheatre-style seating arrangement. Given its unique atmospheric conditions, it has a history of thrilling T20 International matches. It will be interesting to see which team plays to their contingencies more for the 2nd T20 International match between Pakistan and Sri Lanka. Given the date of the match for January 9th, 2026, and today’s date, this will be the 2nd T20 International match for both Pakistan and Sri Lanka. It will be exciting to see which team plays to their contingencies more for the match today.
Rangiri Dambulla Stadium Pitch Report
The Dambulla pitch has previously been very kind to slow bowlers, affording them grip and turn, particularly in the middle overs. At this venue, the average score recorded in the first innings is about 160, which suggests that the pitch may be a little more on the slower side, making run-making quite difficult for the batsmen. Because of the slower nature of the pitch, teams may find it difficult to accelerate in the latter half of the innings, which often results in teams scoring lower than they may at a different venue more conducive to high scoring.
As expected, the pitch behaved in a similar way in the 1st T20I between Sri Lanka and Pakistan on January 7, 2026. Sri Lanka once again failed to bat first and reach a defendable total when they were bowled out for a paltry 128 runs in 19.2 overs. The pitch was once again conducive to spin, with Wanindu Hasaranga and Shadab Khan finding that their spells were rewarded with good grip and turn from the surface. While this sort of surface is often good for bowlers, it is also one that rewards batters who are able to be mentally patient and technically sound to combat the turn and bounce.
Weather and Dew Factor Prediction
Dambulla’s weather is good for cricket with temperatures around 28 degrees and clear skies. Due, however, will likely be an issue in the second innings and is likely to negatively impact how well the bowlers can grip the ball and how effectively they can spin it. Dew will likely help the second chasing team set a higher target as the ball will come onto the bat more. This explains the 2nd batter’s winning record in Dambulla of 70%.
Venue T20I Stats (Batting/Bowling First)
| Batting/Bowling First | Win % (Sri Lanka) | Win % (Pakistan) |
|---|---|---|
| Batting First | 40% | 50% |
| Bowling First | 60% | 70% |
Statistics show that the team bowling first holds an advantage at Dambulla with a 70% winning record. This emphasises the impact of winning the toss, especially in the second innings, where the dew will be an advantage for the team chasing.
Sri Lanka vs Pakistan 2nd T20I Match Prediction: Squad and Probable Playing XI
Sri Lanka Team T20I Squad
After the crushing defeat suffered in the first match of the T20I series, Sri Lanka will focus on their batting, which fell apart due to a lack of partnerships and team effort, leading to an easily defendable total of 128 runs. This will require significant adjustments to the batting lineup to make a competitive match against a fully loaded Pakistan side.
With no major injuries to the batting lineup and a refusal to change the order of the lineup, players such as Kusal Perera, Charith Asalanka, and Pathum Nissanka will need to step in as huge support players and deliver, on the batting side, aggressive runs. A change to the batting style will need to be deployed in order to maximize the runs and ensure they defend a total.
Likely XI:
- Kusal Perera (wk): A strong start will propel him to be key at the top.
- Pathum Nissanka: Will need to be strong as a shackle of the innings to offer stability. ,
- Charith Asalanka: A middle-order player who is part of the aggressive batting of the Asalankas and also an enormous acceleration of the innings.
- Dasun Shanaka (C): The captain, as part of the batting order, will need to be of great value in settling the order.
- Dhananjaya de Silva – someone who is dependable as an all-rounder since he can provide both with bat and ball.
- Wanindu Hasaranga: A crucial bowler and a useful bat in the lower order who can change the course of the game with his spin.
- Maheesh Theekshana: another spin option who is likely to be important on a slow Dambulla pitch.
- Dunith Wellalage: a more of a developing all-rounder with bat and ball.
- Dushmantha Chameera: the pace option who is going to be important in the initial overs.
- Matheesha Pathirana: Pathirana is going to be an essential specialist in the death overs because of his pace and deadly yorkers.
- Nuwan Thushara: he is going to add more pace and variety to the attack.
Top Players:
- Batsman: Pathum Nissanka – Nissanka has the capability to construct innings and provide the support the Sri Lankans require as a reliable batter in the top order.
- Bowler: Wanindu Hasaranga – In the middle overs of the game and other overs where the team needs breakthroughs because of her wicket-taking capability, she is a game-changing bowler.
Pakistan T20I Team Analysis
After successfully chasing down Sri Lanka’s low total in the first match to win by six wickets, Pakistan appears to be headed into the second T20I match with high spirits. Pakistan will be slightly altering its team for the new conditions in Dambulla. Pakistan is well-known for successfully completing chases, particularly for its aggressive and powerful batting lineup. Due to these reasons, Pakistan will likely keep the majority of their team the same as in the first match.
It is expected that after a runaway win, there will be little to no changes to the batting unit. It is likely that Pakistan will make some changes to reinforce the lower order of batting and will have a stronger bowling unit. Leading the bowling pack, Shaheen Afridi and Shadab Khan, Pakistan will be looking to take some early wickets and set up a comfortable run chase.
Likely XI:
- Mohammad Rizwan (wk): Rizwan’s role in the run chase will provide stability to the team and add some to the run tally.
- Babar Azam: Positioning him in the future order of the match will also set the tone for the rest of the batting unit.
- Fakhar Zaman: Zaman can add a dimension of aggression to the lineup as an opener with the wicket-changing and game-altering potential of his batting.
- Iftikhar Ahmed – Ahmed is a solid choice to be in the middle order of the batting unit. He will be able to add some pace to the innings when desired.
- Shadab Khan – Khan will be able to take those all-rounders’ wickets that Pakistan is looking for. To add value, his batting prowess is included as well.
- Mohammad Nawaz: He has proved to be an integral member of the team in the role of an overs controller.
- Salman Agha (c): He is a captain and a productive member of the team as an all-rounder.
- Shaheen Shah Afridi: He is the spearhead of the Pakistani bowling attack and will be instrumental at the start and death overs.
- Haris Rauf: Rauf is a wicket-taking bowler in the death overs and can be a game-changer.
- Naseem Shah: He is an early wicket-taker and the young fast bowler who adds bounce and pace.
- Usman Qadir: He is a breakthrough middle-overs leg spinner.
Top Players:
- Batsman- Babar Azam: Babar is the captain and leading run scorer for the Pakistan team. He is the bedrock for Pakistan to get the highest total possible.
- Bowler- Shaheen Afridi: Afridi’s wicket-taking ability and swinging of the ball at the top make him a big threat.
Probable XIs Side-by-Side
| Sri Lanka | Pakistan |
|---|---|
| 1. Kusal Perera (wk) | 1. Mohammad Rizwan (wk) |
| 2. Pathum Nissanka | 2. Babar Azam (C) |
| 3. Charith Asalanka | 3. Fakhar Zaman |
| 4. Dasun Shanaka (C) | 4. Iftikhar Ahmed |
| 5. Dhananjaya de Silva | 5. Shadab Khan |
| 6. Wanindu Hasaranga | 6. Mohammad Nawaz |
| 7. Maheesh Theekshana | 7. Salman Agha |
| 8. Dunith Wellalage | 8. Shaheen Shah Afridi |
| 9. Dushmantha Chameera | 9. Haris Rauf |
| 10. Matheesha Pathirana | 10. Naseem Shah |
| 11. Nuwan Thushara | 11. Usman Qadir |
Key Players and Matchups for 2nd T20I: Sri Lanka vs Pakistan
Player Battles to Watch
- Shaheen Shah Afridi vs Kusal Perera: As the spearhead of Pakistan’s attack, Shaheen Afridi will try to take advantage of the movement and bounce of Sri Lanka’s Kusal Perera, one of the most explosive openers. Perera will be instrumental for his side, for Afridi’s pinpoint yorkers in the powerplay may test Perera’s attacking intent. Hence, this will be a captivating duel in the first few overs.
- Mohammad Rizwan vs Maheesh Theekshana: Pakistan’s Mohammad Rizwan is looking to sustain his success and reign supreme in the short format of the game. Nevertheless, he may be in for a test from Sri Lanka’s spinner of enigma, Maheesh Theekshana, who possesses the deception to befuddle openers. Rizwan’s technique in the face of spin will be examined.
- Fakhar Zaman vs Dushmantha Chameera: The top-order aggressive batting from Fakhar Zaman will be offset by Dushmantha Chameera, Sri Lanka’s pace enforcer. The bounce and pace of Chameera will challenge Fakhar’s anticipation of short balls and, hence, will defuse the pressure on Sri Lankan bowlers.
- Shadab Khan vs Charith Asalanka: Shadab Khan, the all-rounder from Pakistan, will battle against the middle-order batter from Sri Lanka, Charith Asalanka. Shadab’s leg-spin has worked wonders against left-handers, and Asalanka, the middle overs’ crucial cog, will need to find the answers to Shadab’s problem if Sri Lanka intends to set a fighting score.
Top Fantasy Picks
In fantasy cricket, picking a balanced player is as important as picking a player who has been performing consistently. Some essentials to include in your fantasy team for the 2nd T20I include:
- Fakhar Zaman (PAK) – Captain Pick: Zaman has been in stunning form, and battering innings are a routine affair for him. He turns innings into destruction and gives blistering starts from the top, making him a strong captain option.
- Babar Azam (PAK) – Vice Captain Pick: The captain for Pakistan’s side is Babar Azam, and he is appreciated for batting slowly off the run rate and engineering the innings from the top, albeit the template is a bit outdated. Spending a great deal of time is a wedge for Babar to score decent fantasy points, and he is a strong vice-captain option.
- Wanindu Hasaranga (SL) – Must-Pick: In current world cricket, Wanindu Hasaranga with the ball has to be one of the best T20 bowlers around, particularly in the spin department. He has a great ability to take wickets in the middle overs, and also contributes with the bat in the lower order. Thus, he becomes a candidate again to be picked in the fantasy team. How he performs with the top-order batters, particularly in this case, Babar Azam, will be crucial for the team’s success in Sri Lanka.
- Mohammad Rizwan (PAK) – Must-Pick: Rizwan has scored consistently in the recent T20 matches. He has performed in each of the innings very well, and has made great contributions to his score, and therefore is very essential for the pick in fantasy as well.
- Maheesh Theekshana (SL) – Must-Pick: Theekshana uses different types of deliveries to be a vital player for Sri Lanka in the middle overs. His ability to confound crucial batsmen like Rizwan or Fakhar Zaman should make him a good option for your fantasy team.
Betting Predictions and Tips for 2nd T20I: Pakistan vs Sri Lanka
Match Predictions and Odds
The 2nd T20I between Sri Lanka and Pakistan is set for an exciting match. Pakistan took the first match, winning by six wickets, so they walk into the 2nd match with the momentum. However, Sri Lanka will be eager to reverse the result and level the series after an unfortunate and unsatisfactory performance with the bat. Despite their recent form, Pakistan is likely to win, based on their recent winning streak in T20I matches and their significant dominance in the subsequent match.
Win Probability:
- Pakistan: 55% – After their successful chase in the first match, Pakistan is favored after achieving positive outcomes and demonstrating strong abilities to chase.
- Sri Lanka has been given a 45% chance to win. In previous matches, Wanindu Hasaranga and Pathum Nissanka played the role of a match-winner. Based on this, Sri Lanka can be predicted to make a strong comeback.
Betting Markets:
Several betting options are available for this match. Here are a few predictions for the best odds.
| Market | Favorite | Odds |
|---|---|---|
| Match Winner | Pakistan | 1.75 |
| Top Batsman (SL) | Pathum Nissanka | 5.50 |
| Top Batsman (PAK) | Babar Azam | 3.00 |
| Total Runs (SL) | Over 160 | 1.90 |
| Top Bowler (PAK) | Shaheen Afridi | 3.50 |
Bold Prediction: Pakistan to win by 10-15 runs. When looking at Pakistan’s chasing abilities and Sri Lanka’s batting hurdles, Pakistan has the ticket to win this match by a large margin, assuming their bowlers are on target. Bet on Reddy Anna Book and win, and withdraw your winnings instantly for a seamless betting experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Who is likely to win the second T20I match between Pakistan and Sri Lanka?
Answer: After the first T20I, Pakistan holds a great chance to win the match. Predictably, they hold a 55% chance to win, given their strong batting and bowling lineup. However, Sri Lanka is sure to make a comeback strong enough to become a threat.
2. What are the major matchups in the 2nd T20I between Pakistan and Sri Lanka?
Answer: Possible matchups include:
Babar Azam face-off with Wanindu Hasaranga: Hasaranga bowls spin versus the steady Babar.
Shaheen Afridi meets Kusal Perera: Strike with Afridi’s pace against an agile batting Perera.
Mohammad Rizwan-Wanindu Theekshana Duel: Rizwan’s consistency versus Theekshana’s Mystery spin will be in the middle Overs.
3. What are the best betting odds for Pakistan vs Sri Lanka T20I?
Answer: The match winner odds are priced at 1.75 for Pakistan. The top batsman in Sri Lanka, Pathum Nissanka, is quoted at 5.50. The top batsman for Pakistan, Babar Azam, is at 3.00. For total runs, Sri Lanka is expected to score more than 160, which is priced at 1.90. Here, the betting odds are focused on the results and individual performances.
4. What result is expected in the match between Pakistan and Sri Lanka in the 2nd T20I?
Answer: The expected result is that Pakistan will win the match with a 10 to 15 run margin, considering their chase prowess and the spin and pace of Afridi and Babar Azam in a good rhythm. Sri Lanka will have to up their batting game for the contest to be close.
5. How does the pitch at Rangiri Dambulla affect the game?
Answer: Rangiri Dambulla International Stadium has a reputation for being a difficult venue to score runs for. It often favors spinners, with the first innings average score being around 160. It could be a little easier to chase due to the dew, which tends to assist the second team batting. It will be a spin-friendly pitch, which could assist the likes of Wanindu Hasaranga and Shadab Khan.