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DAMBULLA: The second T20I between Sri Lanka and Pakistan, scheduled for January 9, 2026, at the Rangiri Dambulla International Stadium, promises to be a crucial encounter as both teams fine-tune their preparations for the upcoming ICC Men’s T20 World Cup, co-hosted by India and Sri Lanka starting next month.
Pakistan enters the contest with momentum, having secured a commanding six-wicket victory in the opening match on January 7, chasing down Sri Lanka’s modest 128 with more than three overs to spare.
In the first game, Pakistan’s bowlers set the tone early, restricting the hosts to a below-par total. Young pacer Salman Mirza and mystery spinner Abrar Ahmed claimed three wickets each, while the returning Shadab Khan chipped in with two crucial strikes, including a quick double blow in the middle overs. Sri Lanka’s batting faltered once again, collapsing to 38 for 4 before a partial recovery led by Janith Liyanage’s 40. However, regular wickets prevented any substantial partnerships, and they were bowled out for 128 in 19.2 overs.
Pakistan’s chase was clinical, powered by opener Sahibzada Farhan’s aggressive half-century and a solid contribution from Saim Ayub. The visitors reached the target in just 16.4 overs, showcasing their depth even without star players like Babar Azam, who is currently featuring in the Big Bash League.
Head coach Mike Hesson praised the performance as “very clinical,” highlighting the bowling discipline and top-order assurance. Minor concerns remain around fielding, with a few dropped catches, but overall, Pakistan appear comfortable in these subcontinental conditions.
For Sri Lanka, led by Dasun Shanaka, the batting woes are a growing concern ahead of the World Cup. Frequent top-order collapses have plagued them, and the opening match exposed vulnerabilities against quality pace and spin. Pathum Nissanka and Kusal Mendis will need to provide stability at the top, while the middle order, including Charith Asalanka and Wanindu Hasaranga, must convert starts into substantial scores. Their bowling unit, featuring Hasaranga, Maheesh Theekshana, and Dushmantha Chameera, has potential but lacked penetration in the opener. Reports suggest they might bring in slingy pacer Matheesha Pathirana to bolster the attack, adding variety and death-over expertise.
Pakistan, under stand-in captain Salman Ali Agha, will aim to seal the three-match series with another composed display. Their squad blends experience with youth, including all-rounders like Shadab Khan and Mohammad Nawaz, and promising openers in Farhan and Ayub. Adapting to Sri Lankan pitches early could prove vital, as Pakistan are slated to play all their World Cup group and potential Super Eight games on the island.
Sri Lanka, playing at home, cannot afford another slip-up if they are to build confidence before the global event. Fixing the batting fragility—avoiding cluster wickets and building partnerships—will be key. A win here would level the series and inject belief into a side with talented individuals but inconsistent results against top opposition.
With the Dambulla surface likely to assist spinners and offer some movement under lights, expect a tactical battle. Pakistan starts as favorites, but Sri Lanka’s home advantage and desperation for a turnaround could make this a closely contested affair. The series serves as the final dress rehearsal for both teams, making every run and wicket count in the race to World Cup readiness.
