SL vs PAK 1st T20I Match Preview:

The T20I series between Sri Lanka and Pakistan kicks off today at the Rangiri Dambulla International Stadium, Dambulla, Sri Lanka. Sri Lanka enters this series with a point to prove, especially after a heavy defeat against Pakistan by 6 wickets in the Final of the Tri-nation series. The hosts will be keen to regroup and return to winning ways.

Pakistan, meanwhile, has enjoyed much success recently in the T20 Tri-Nation series and emerged victorious in the summit clash. Babar Azam, Shaheen Afridi, Haris Rauf, and Mohammad Rizwan will not be available for Pakistan in this series. This will be an ideal series for them to get ready for the big ICC event.

SL vs PAK Recent Performance:

SL vs PAK 1st T20I Match Details:

• Series/Tournament: Pakistan Tour of Sri Lanka 
• Match: SL vs PAK 1st T20I
• Date: 7 Jan. 2026
• Match Start Time: 7:00 PM IST
• Stadium/Venue: Rangiri Dambulla International Stadium, Dambulla, Sri Lanka
• Live Score: cricketwinner.com
• Live Streaming: Fancode.

SL vs PAK Head-to-Head Stats:

(Last 10 Matches)

SL vs PAK Pitch & Weather Report:

The sky is likely to remain cloudy, with a chance of passing showers. The temperature is expected to reach around 25°C. Based on previous stats, the average score at this venue ranges between 144 and 171 runs. The pitch offers good assistance to batters and spinners.

Rangiri Dambulla International Stadium Stats: 

The Rangiri Dambulla pitch is slow and has a low bounce. Batsmen struggle here to play freely. As the game progresses, the spinners also come into the game. Winning the toss and opting to bat first will be a wise decision on this surface.    

SL vs PAK 1st T20I Probable Playing 11

Sri Lanka (SL) Probable 11:

Pathum Nissanka, Kamil Mishara, Kusal Mendis (WK), Kusal Perera, Charith Asalanka, Dasun Shanaka (C), Kamindu Mendis, Wanindu Hasaranga, Maheesh Theekshana, Dushmantha Chameera/ T Mathew, Matheesha Pathirana.

Pakistan (PAK) Probable 11:

Sahibzada Farhan, Saim Ayub, Fakhar Zaman, Salman Ali Agha (C), Usman Khan (WK), Shadab Khan, Mohammad Nawaz, Faheem Ashraf, Naseem Shah, Abrar Ahmad, Salman Mirza.

SL vs PAK- Top Picks from SL

SL vs PAK- Top Picks from PAK

Cricket Winner Player’s Insight:

• Kusal Mendis (SL) is a top-form batter for SL. He has scored 77 runs in the last three T20I matches
• W Hasaranga (SL) is a brilliant all-rounder for the SL team. He can contribute well in both batting and bowling in the upcoming match. 
• M Nawaz (PAK) is a star all-rounder! for Pakistan. He is in good form now and has led his team to victory several times.
• Fakhar Zaman (PAK) plays an important role in Pakistan's batting. He is one of the best options in the upcoming games.

SL vs PAK Captain & Vice-Captain Choices:

SL vs PAK Fantasy Team Suggestion:  

SL vs PAK Dream11 Prediction Expert Advice 

SL vs PAK Dream11 Prediction Probable Winners:

SL is expected to win this match. Sri Lanka has completely dominated Pakistan in the head-to-head matches. Additionally, they have the advantage of playing on their home ground.

SL vs PAK 1st T20I FAQ

Who is likely to win the SL vs PAK match today?

Sri Lanka (SL) is expected to win this match.

Who is ahead in head-to-head stats?    

Sri Lanka

Who are the top fantasy picks for the SL vs PAK Dream11 team?

Fakhar Zaman, M Nawaz, W Hasaranga, Kusal Mendis, Shadab Khan and D Shanka

What is the pitch report for this match?

The surface is balanced, and we can expect an average score range between 144 and 171 runs.