The excitement for the T20 World Cup 2026 is already growing. All 20 teams are getting ready to fight for the title. The tournament will be co-hosted by India and Sri Lanka and will begin on February 7. Fans can expect fast-paced matches and big moments.

Many young players are likely to play their first T20 World Cup and make a name for themselves. At the same time, this tournament could be the last World Cup for some senior players. Because of age or current form, a few experienced stars may not return for another edition.

Below are five players who could be playing their final T20 World Cup.

Also read -Former RCB all-rounder named as Australia's all-format captain ahead of ICC T20 World Cup 2026

1. Mohammad Nabi (Afghanistan)

Mohammad Nabi has been one of the most important players in Afghanistan’s cricket journey. From the early days to the world stage, he has helped the team grow with both bat and ball. Now 41 years old, the experienced all-rounder is close to the end of his career. With the next T20 World Cup after 2026 set for 2028, it is unlikely he will play again at the age of 43.

In T20 internationals, Nabi has scored 2,430 runs and taken 104 wickets. He has also led Afghanistan in three T20 World Cups. His calm leadership and fighting spirit helped Afghanistan earn respect in world cricket.

2. Glenn Maxwell (Australia)

Glenn Maxwell is one of the most exciting batters in modern cricket. He is known for his fast scoring and creative shots. Maxwell can change a match in just a few overs.

His attacking style sometimes brings mixed results, but it has also produced many special moments. One of his best knocks was a T20I century against India in 2019. Maxwell has scored over 2,800 T20I runs and has also contributed with the ball.

3. Adil Rashid (England)

Adil Rashid has been a key player in England’s white-ball success. When England needed a strong leg-spinner, Rashid stepped up and became a regular wicket-taker.

He is England’s highest wicket-taker in T20 internationals, with more than 140 wickets. Rashid has been effective in the middle overs and keeps his runs under control. With age catching up, the 2026 T20 World Cup could be his last.

4. Fakhar Zaman (Pakistan)

Fakhar Zaman has been an important part of Pakistan’s batting over the years. The left-handed opener is known for his power and fearless approach at the top of the order.

In T20 internationals, Fakhar has scored more than 2,300 runs. As Pakistan looks at younger players and Fakhar moves into his late 30s, this World Cup may be his final chance to perform on the big stage.

5. David Miller (South Africa)

David Miller is known for his strong finishing skills and big hitting. He has won many matches for South Africa with his aggressive batting.

Miller has scored over 2,600 runs in T20 internationals, including two centuries. With age and form becoming important factors, the 2026 T20 World Cup could be his last appearance in international T20 cricket.

Sri Lanka will face Pakistan in the 2nd T20I of the Pakistan tour of Sri Lanka 2026, which will be played at the Rangiri Dambulla International Stadium in Dambulla on Friday. Pakistan won the first T20I match by six wickets and leads the series 1-0.

Sri Lanka struggled to get going in their innings and were dismissed for 128 runs in 19.2 overs. For Sri Lanka, Janith Liyanage showed fight with the bat and scored 40 runs off 31 balls. In response, Pakistan comfortably chased down the target in 16.4 overs. 

Also Read: SL vs PAK Dream11 Prediction Playing XI: 2nd T20I, Pakistan Tour of Sri Lanka, 2025 Fantasy Cricket Tips, Team, and Pitch Report

SL vs PAK Match Details

• Match: Sri Lanka vs Pakistan, 2nd T20I 

• Date: 9th January 2026

• Time: 7.00 PM IST

• Venue: Rangiri Dambulla International Stadium, Dambulla 

• Live Streaming: FanCode

SL vs PAK Weather Report

Pitch Report

The average first innings score at Rangiri Dambulla International Cricket Stadium in the ten completed T20Is is around 150 runs.

Top Batters to Watch – SL vs PAK

• Sahibzada Farhan (PAK): 51 runs in this Series 

• Janith Liyanange (SL): 40 runs in this Series

• Saim Ayub (PAK): 24 runs in this Series 

Top Bowlers to Watch – SL vs PAK

• Salman Mirza (PAK): 3 wickets in Series

• Abrar Khan (PAK): 3 wickets in Series

• Imad Wasim (PAK): 2 wickets in Series 

SL vs PAK Recent Form

SL vs PAK Today Match Prediction Scenarios

Scenario 1: If SL Bat First

• Powerplay Score: 40–50

• Predicted Total: 160-170

• Match Result: PAK to win

Scenario 2: If PAK Bat First

• Powerplay Score: 50–55

• Predicted Total: 170–180

• Match Result: PAK to win

Who Will Hit the Most Sixes?

Who Will Hit the Most Fours?

SL vs PAK Predicted Playing XIs

Sri Lanka

Dasun Shanaka(c), Charith Asalanka, Kusal Mendis (wk), Pathum Nissanka, Kamil Mishara, Kamindu Mendis, Janith Liyanage, Wanindu Hasaranga, Mahesh Theekshana, Nuwan Thushara and Dushmantha Chameera.

Pakistan

Salman Agha (c), Usman Khan (wk), Sahibzada Farhan, Saim Ayub, Fakhar Zaman, Shadab Khan, Mohammad Nawaz, Abrar Ahmed, Salman Mirza, Naseem Shah and Mohammad Wasim Jr.

SL vs PAK Today Match Prediction – Who Will Win Today?

We predict that Pakistan will win the 2nd T20I match. The likes of Saim Ayub, Haris Rauf and Babar Azam will be key players to watch out for.

SL vs PAK Match FAQs

The upcoming T20 World Cup in 2026 will commence in a month, with the tournament's squad formation having been completed for most teams already. India, Australia and England have stated their playing XI; however, Pakistan has only advised that its provisional squad consists of 16 players, with the management monitoring other players closely for performance and fitness levels. After the conclusion of Pakistan's T20I Series against Sri Lanka, a final squad will be announced and chosen based on performance, combinations tested and any changes necessary before the T20 World Cup.

Since there has been a delay in the announcement of the squad officially, there are a number of players that may not be selected for Pakistan’s T20 World Cup Team; consideration will be given to inconsistent performances or balancing of the team. Players who have been performing poorly, or do not match what the team requires from a strategic standpoint, may not make the cut and will need to make an impression in the series against Sri Lanka to be selected as part of the final squad. The management is searching for a competitive side that has balanced team composition to compete with the top teams on the World Stage. Three players are;

Haris Rauf

During the Asia Cup 2025 final against India when Pakistan lost, Haris Rauf was identified as Pakistan's premier T20 pace bowler; however, Haris has been experiencing a decline in form. His inability to produce economically affordable overs resulted in his failure to deliver for the national team when it mattered. Salman Mirza, Naseem Shah and a fit Shaheen Afridi are available as dependable seam options, perhaps leaving little incentive for a fourth seamer to play at the Sri Lankan venues. Haris' T20I statistics in 2025 (23 wickets from 15 matches at an economy rate of 9.11) indicate the mounting pressure he continues to face.

Over the past three years, Haris' economy rate has increased from 7.76, in 2023, to 9.11, in 2025. The increase in his economy has impacted the results of numerous matches, with Haris unable to keep crucial runs at bay during the most critical stages of matches, which have cost the team at very important times (Asia Cup Final, Brisbane Heat) and has led to some losses. With the national selectors now having three confirmed pacers available along with the ongoing recovery of Shaheen Afridi, it is likely they will omit Haris from the T20 World Cup Squad and utilise their resources for more reliable and consistent bowlers for the marquee tournament.

See Also: PSL New Teams Auction 2026: Live Streaming, Telecast & Where to Watch Worldwide

Fakhar Zaman

Fakhar Zaman has had a terrible year in 2025; his T20 International performances have not been at the level expected of him, and as such, he has been moved down the order to make way for other star players who play in the top order. He has also suffered from injuries, as well as a lack of good form, which have both been major impediments to his ability to perform on a consistent basis. In fact, this year alone, he has played in 22 T20I matches and scored just 512 runs at a strike rate of 127.68, with only two fifties; thus, it is clear that the high strike rate that an opening batsman is expected to produce is no longer attainable for Fakhar.

The difficulties he has experienced with his form have also extended into the ILT20, where he scored just 260 runs in his 12 games with a strike rate of 124.40. Additionally, given that Pakistan currently has several options available to them at the top of the order in Sahibzada Farhan, Saim Ayub, and Babar Azam, it is unlikely that Fakhar will receive an opportunity to bat in his preferred opening position. Furthermore, the Pakistan team has numerous options available in the middle order that could take his place; therefore, if he does not regain his form, he could potentially be dropped from the T20 World Cup squad by the selectors.

Babar Azam

Since being dropped from the T20I squad for the Asia Cup, Babar Azam received a message from the Head Coach of Pakistan, Mike Hesson, to improve his strike rate. However, even when Babar was returned to the T20I squad, he continued to have a lower strike-rate tempo during his innings. In the next series that followed when Pakistan faced South Africa and Babar played three matches against them, he scored 79 runs at a strike rate of 117.91 and during the Tri-nation series where he played five matches, he scored 127 runs at a strike rate of 112.39. His stats illustrate that Babar remains unable to increase his scoring rate while playing T20 cricket at present times.

Babar's struggles continued in the BBL 2025, where although he scored two 50s (fifties) in the tournament, he only had a strike rate of 111; even in a batting friendly environment, Babar struggled to dominate. Since the T20 World Cup will be played in Sri Lanka where the majority of the pitches are slower, this environment may not be suitable for Babar as he may need to play in more of an aggressive mode at the top of the order as opposed to being an anchor. Considering that he has not consistently performed at a high level while playing attacking cricket, Babar's role with the squad in a batting-friendly environment where quick runs are the goal remains questionable.

Sri Lanka will face Pakistan in the 1st T20I of the Pakistan tour of Sri Lanka 2026, which will be played at the Rangiri Dambulla International Stadium in Dambulla on Wednesday. Pathum Nissanka and Dushmantha Chameera have been the top performers for Sri Lanka in the T20 Format since last year. 

On the other hand, Salman Agha will lead Pakistan in this three-match T20I series against Sri Lanka. Shaheen Afridi and Babar Azam will be unavailable for this series because they are currently involved in the ongoing Big Bash League in Australia.

Also Read: SA20 2025: MICT vs JSK Dream11 Prediction 15th Match Fantasy Cricket Tips, Probable Playing XI

SL vs PAK Match Details

• Match: Sri Lanka vs Pakistan, 1st T20I 

• Date: 7th January 2026

• Time: 7.00 PM IST

• Venue: Rangiri Dambulla International Stadium, Dambulla 

• Live Streaming: FanCode

SL vs PAK Weather Report

Pitch Report

The average first innings score at Rangiri Dambulla International Cricket Stadium in the ten completed T20Is is around 150 runs.

Top Batters to Watch – SL vs PAK

• Fakhar Zaman (PAK): 2360 runs in T20I 

• Dasun Shanaka (SL): 1676 runs in T20I 

• Salman Agha (PAK): 675 runs in T20I 

Top Bowlers to Watch – SL vs PAK

• Wanindu Hasaranga (PAK): 146 wickets in T20I 

• Shadab Khan (PAK): 112 wickets in T20I 

• Maheesh Theekshana (SL): 69 wickets in T20I 

SL vs PAK Recent Form

SL vs PAK Today Match Prediction Scenarios

Scenario 1: If SL Bat First

• Powerplay Score: 40–50

• Predicted Total: 160-170

• Match Result: PAK to win

Scenario 2: If PAK Bat First

• Powerplay Score: 50–55

• Predicted Total: 170–180

• Match Result: PAK to win

Who Will Hit the Most Sixes?

Who Will Hit the Most Fours?

SL vs PAK Predicted Playing XIs

Sri Lanka

Charith Asalanka (c), Kusal Mendis (wk), Pathum Nissanka, Kusal Perera, Dasun Shanaka, Kamindu Mendis, Janith Liyanage, Wanindu Hasaranga, Mahesh Theekshana, Nuwan Thushara and Dushmantha Chameera.

Pakistan

Salman Agha (c), Usman Khan (wk), Sahibzada Farhan, Saim Ayub, Fakhar Zaman, Shadab Khan, Mohammad Nawaz, Abrar Ahmed, Salman Mirza, Naseem Shah and Usman Tariq

SL vs PAK Today Match Prediction – Who Will Win Today?

We predict that Pakistan will win the 1st T20I match. The likes of Saim Ayub, Haris Rauf and Babar Azam will be key players to watch out for.

SL vs PAK Match FAQs

After a tough loss in the second Test against South Africa, the Pakistan cricket team is now preparing to face the hosts in a three-match T20I series, starting Tuesday. A few days before the series, the Pakistan selectors announced the T20I squad for South Africa, and one major surprise was the exclusion of Fakhar Zaman from the main lineup. Instead, the left-handed opener has been placed in the reserves, while Babar Azam returns as captain to lead the Pakistan T20 team once again.

The decision to drop Fakhar Zaman surprised fans and cricket experts alike, especially after his solid performance in the Asia Cup 2025, where he finished as Pakistan’s second-highest run-scorer behind Sahibzada Farhan.

Fakhar played a key role in the Asia Cup final against India, scoring briskly and helping Pakistan post a competitive total. Despite these impressive performances, the team management decided to rest Fakhar Zaman for the South Africa T20I series, focusing on squad rotation and player workload.

Ahead of the first match, Pakistan's head coach addressed the media and explained the reasoning behind the decision. “We’ve spoken with Fakhar Zaman, he’s determined to make a strong ODI comeback, so we’ve given him a break from T20 cricket to work on his batting technique,” he said. The coach emphasised that the move was part of a long-term strategy to help Fakhar regain consistency and improve his game for the 50-over format ahead of future Pakistan ODI series.

Fakhar Zaman’s Next Move: Preparing for a Big ODI Comeback

Since the 2023 ICC Cricket World Cup, where Fakhar Zaman was one of Pakistan’s top performers and key run-scorers, the left-handed opener has faced several challenges.

Over the past year, he has struggled with recurring injuries and minor disciplinary issues, affecting his consistency and availability for international matches. 

Fakhar has missed multiple games due to fitness concerns and workload management. Additionally, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) issued a warning to him for making public comments in support of Babar Azam during a previous leadership controversy within the Pakistan cricket setup.

See Also: [WATCH] Rohit Sharma shocked after magician reads Indian captain's mind as video goes viral

Fakhar last played an ODI during the opening game of the Champions Trophy before getting injured again. Now at 35, he wants to focus on his ODI career and return stronger. Taking a short break from T20Is will allow him to work on his form, fitness, and technique as he looks to make a strong comeback to Pakistan’s ODI squad.

Frequently Asked Questions 

1. Why was Fakhar Zaman dropped from Pakistan’s T20I squad against South Africa?

Fakhar Zaman was rested from the T20I series against South Africa to focus on improving his batting technique and fitness for a potential ODI comeback. According to Pakistan’s head coach, the decision was made as part of a long-term strategy to help him prepare for the upcoming 50-over tournaments.

2. Did Fakhar Zaman perform well before being dropped from the T20I squad?

Yes, Fakhar Zaman performed strongly in the Asia Cup 2025, where he finished as Pakistan’s second-highest run-scorer after Sahibzada Farhan. He also played a vital innings in the final against India, helping Pakistan post a competitive total before being rested for the South Africa T20Is.

3. What did Pakistan’s head coach say about Fakhar Zaman’s exclusion?

Pakistan’s head coach clarified that Fakhar Zaman’s omission from the South Africa T20I squad was not due to poor form but a planned break. The coach revealed that Fakhar requested time to work on his technique and fitness to prepare for an ODI comeback, emphasising it was a mutual and career-focused decision.

4. Has Fakhar Zaman faced any issues since the 2023 World Cup?

Since the 2023 ICC Cricket World Cup, Fakhar Zaman has dealt with injuries and minor disciplinary issues. He missed several matches due to fitness concerns and was also cautioned by the PCB for publicly supporting Babar Azam during a leadership controversy in Pakistan cricket.

5. Will Fakhar Zaman return to Pakistan’s ODI squad soon?

Fakhar Zaman is expected to make a comeback in Pakistan’s ODI setup once he regains full fitness and refines his batting technique. With his focus now on improving consistency and form, selectors and fans anticipate his return in the upcoming ODI series later in 2025.

In the Asia Cup 2025 Final, Pakistan openers Sahibzada Farhan and Fakhar Zaman provided a strong start. But the Indian spinners brought the Men in Blues back in the game with superb bowling performances, as they picked up wickets in back-to-back overs. In the crucial 15th over, while the Pakistan opener Fakhar Zaman seemed very dangerous, the leg-spinner Varun Chakaravarthy dismissed him bravely. 

Pakistan openers Sahibzada Farhan and Fakhar Zaman put on an 84-run partnership for the first wicket, as Farhan was dismissed in the 10th over after another great half-century. Indian spinner Varun Chakaravarthy took that wicket, and later the Indian spinners dominated to bring an entire batting collapse of the Pakistan team.

Opener Fakhar Zaman started slowly, as Farhan was charging the Indian bowlers, which was likely a part of their game plan. But after that opening wicket fall, Fakhar didn't get any proper support from the other end, as the pressure was building up on him. 

WATCH: Axar Patel strikes as Mohammad Haris falls for a duck in Asia Cup 2025 Final IND vs PAK

Asia Cup 2025 Final, India vs Pakistan: Varun Chakaravarthy dismissed Fakhar Zaman just after a sixer

While Pakistan were losing under pressure in the middle overs, Fakhar tried his best. In the 15th over, he smashed a sixer to Varun Chakaravarthy. It was a full and wide delivery, which Fakhar smacked over the long on for an overboundary. On the very next ball, Varun delivered another wide delivery with a shorter length, and Fakhar once again went for that but couldn't control his stroke. The ball went to the backward point, and Kuldeep Yadav took that crucial catch to bring another crucial wicket for India. 

Fakhar scored 46 off 35 balls with two fours and two sixes, while Pakistan were suddenly down to 126/4 after once dominating at 113/1. It was another big wicket for India, as the Indian bowlers took full control of the game since then, as Pakistan were later bowled out for only 146 runs in 19.1 overs. 

Watch: Fakhar Zaman's dismissal video

Varun Chakaravarthy gets the big fish, Fakhar Zaman 💪🔥

Watch the Asia Cup Final LIVE NOW on the Sony Sports Network TV channels & Sony LIV.#SonySportsNetwork #DPWorldAsiaCup2025 #INDvPAK pic.twitter.com/yVq19ttMJc

— Sony Sports Network (@SonySportsNetwk) September 28, 2025

After overcoming Sri Lanka in a must-win contest, Pakistan managed to keep their Asia Cup 2025 campaign alive. That victory ensured they had another shot at reaching the tournament final.

Today, they face Bangladesh in what has effectively become a virtual knockout battle, with the winner earning the right to challenge India in the summit clash. The stakes are high, and both sides know this game could define their journey in the competition.

However, Pakistan’s hopes took a serious blow early in the innings. Struggling against disciplined bowling, they collapsed under pressure, losing five wickets before even crossing the 50-run mark. The early setbacks left their middle order with an uphill task, as the team’s chances of survival in the match and the tournament now hang in the balance.

See Also: India vs England: how to watch ICC Women’s World Cup 2025 warm-up match live?

Rishad Hossain Sends Fakhar Zaman to Pakistan’s Dressing Room:

Pakistan’s batting began on a shaky note as they lost two quick wickets within the first two overs. Opener Fakhar Zaman managed to hit a couple of boundaries but failed to provide stability. His short stay at the crease added little value, leaving Pakistan under pressure early in their innings and needing a strong recovery.

In the third ball of the seventh over, Pakistan faced another setback as Rishad Hossain struck with his very first over. Fakhar Zaman, who was struggling to find rhythm, decided to attack a flighted delivery pitched outside off. Looking to clear the infield with a lofted drive, he mistimed the shot and couldn’t generate the required elevation.

Positioned at wide long-off, Tanzim Hasan Sakib judged the ball perfectly and completed a clean catch, sending Zaman back to the pavilion. It was a crucial breakthrough for Bangladesh as Pakistan’s top order crumbled under pressure. With three wickets already down, Pakistan now found themselves in urgent need of a steady partnership to revive their innings and keep their hopes alive.

Rishad Hossain joins the party for Bangladesh 🙌

Pakistan lose their 3rd wicket.

Watch #PAKvBAN LIVE NOW on the Sony Sports Network TV channels & Sony LIV.#SonySportsNetwork #DPWorldAsiaCup2025 pic.twitter.com/M6fFV6PdOH

— Sony Sports Network (@SonySportsNetwk) September 25, 2025

Fakhar Zaman’s innings ended prematurely after scoring 13 runs from 20 deliveries, including two boundaries, at a modest strike rate of 65.00. He was caught by Tanzim Hasan Sakib at long-off while attempting an aggressive lofted shot off Rishad Hossain’s bowling, cutting short his knock and adding to Pakistan’s batting woes early in the chase.

Pakistan and Bangladesh clash in a do-or-die Super Four fixture of Asia Cup 2025 at Dubai. Both teams have been inconsistent to this point and must secure victory here to guarantee their spot in the final. Pakistan kicked off their Super Four campaign with yet another disappointing defeat to India. They recovered with a solid victory over Sri Lanka and now need to beat Bangladesh to book their place in the final. 

On the other hand, Bangladesh have appeared disciplined and organized throughout this Asia Cup campaign. They reached the Super Fours by winning two from three matches, and then maintained that form by defeating Sri Lanka by four wickets in their first game of the second phase.

PAK vs BAN Match Details

Date: 25th September, 2025

Time: 8:00 PM IST

Venue: Dubai International Cricket Stadium 

Live Streaming: Fancode  

PAK vs BAN Weather Report

There are no signs of any rain interruptions throughout the game. It is pleasant conditions and perfect throughout the game.

Also Read: Asia Cup 2025: IND vs BAN Today Match Prediction– Super Four, Match 4, Who will win today?

Top Batters PAK vs BAN

• Saif Hassan (BAN) - 160 runs in this tournament 

• Sahibzada Farhan (PAK) - 156 runs in this tournament 

• Fakhar Zaman (PAK) - 122 runs in this tournament 

Top Bowler PAK vs BAN

• Mustafizur Rahman (BAN) - 8 wickets in this tournament 

• Saim Ayub (PAK) - 6 wickets in this tournament 

• Shaheen Afridi (PAK) - 6 wickets in this tournament 

PAK vs BAN Recent Performance

PAK vs BAN Today Match Prediction Scenarios

Scenario 1- If IND bats first

• First Innings score prediction - PAK is expected to score 170-180 runs

• Result prediction- PAK will win the match by 20-30 runs

Scenario 2- If the BAN bats first

• First Innings score prediction- BAN is expected to score 140-160 runs.

• Result prediction- PAK will win the match by 5 wickets 

PAK vs BAN Predicted Playing XI

Pakistan (PAK) Playing XI 

Saim Ayub, Sahibzada Farhan, Fakhar Zaman, Salman Agha(c), Hussain Talat, Mohammad Haris(w), Mohammad Nawaz, Faheem Ashraf, Shaheen Afridi, Haris Rauf, Abrar Ahmed.

Bangladesh (BAN) Playing XI 

Saif Hassan, Tanzid Hasan Tamim, Parvez Hossain Emon, Towhid Hridoy, Shamim Hossain, Jaker Ali(w/c), Mohammad Saifuddin, Rishad Hossain, Tanzim Hasan Sakib, Nasum Ahmed, Mustafizur Rahman

PAK vs BAN Complete Squad

Pakistan - 

Salman Ali Agha (c), Abrar Ahmed, Faheem Ashraf, Fakhar Zaman, Haris Rauf, Hasan Ali, Hasan Nawaz, Hussain Talat, Khushdil Shah, Mohammad Haris, Mohammad Nawaz, Mohammad Waseem Jnr, Sahibzada Farhan, Saim Ayub, Salman Mirza, Shaheen Afridi, Sufyan Moqim.

Bangladesh -

Litton Das (c), Tanzid Hasan, Parvez Hossain Emon, Saif Hassan, Tawhid Hridoy, Jaker Ali Anik, Shamim Hossain, Quazi Nurul Hasan Sohan, Shak Mahedi Hasan, Rishad Hossain, Nasum Ahmed, Mustafizur Rahman, Tanzim Hasan Sakib, Taskin Ahmed, and Shoriful Islam, Shaif Uddin.

PAK vs BAN Today Match Prediction, Who Will Win the Match?

Pakistan to win

We predict that Pakistan will win this Asia Cup 2025 match. Sahibzada Farhan, Fakhar Zaman and Saim Ayub will be key players to watch out for.

The Pakistan team will be under pressure heading into this game. They lost to India in the last game by 6 wickets despite a strong show with the bat. The bowling attack struggled to contain the Indians and threw away the game. They failed to defend the target of 172 runs. 

On the other hand, it is a must-win game for the Sri Lankan team. The Sri Lankan skipper will be upset with the 4-wicket loss against Bangladesh in the last game. They failed to defend the target of 169 runs. 

PAK vs SL Match Details

Date: 23rd September, 2025

Time: 8:00 PM IST

Venue: Sheikh Zayed Stadium, Abu Dhabi 

Live Streaming: Fancode  

PAK vs SL Weather Report

There are no signs of any rain interruptions throughout the game. It is pleasant conditions and perfect throughout the game.

Also Read: Pakistan Women vs South Africa Women ODI: PK-W vs SA-W Prediction– 3rd ODI Match, Who will win today?

Top Batters PAK vs SL

• Pathum Nissanka (SL) - 146 runs in this tournament 

• Sahibzada Farhan (PAK) - 132 runs in this tournament 

• Kusal Mendis (SL) - 122 runs in this tournament 

Top Bowler PAK vs SL

• Nuwan Thushara (SL) - 6 wickets in this tournament 

• Saim Ayub (PAK) - 6 wickets in this tournament 

• Wanindu Hasaranga (SL) - 5 wickets in this tournament 

PAK vs SL Recent Performance

PAK vs SL Today Match Prediction Scenarios

Scenario 1- If SL bats first

• First Innings score prediction- SL is expected to score 170-180 runs

• Result prediction- SL will win the match by 20-30 runs

Scenario 2- If the PAK bats first

• First Innings score prediction- PAK is expected to score 145-165 runs.

• Result prediction- SL will win the match by 3 wickets 

PAK vs SL Predicted Playing XI

Sri Lanka (SL) Playing XI 

Charith Asalanka (c), Pathum Nissanka, Kusal Mendis (wk), Kamil Mishara, Kusal Perera, Dasun Shanaka, Kamindu Mendis, Wanindu Hasaranga, Dunith Wellalage, Dushmantha Chameera, Nuwan Thushara.

Pakistan (PAK) Playing XI 

Sahibzada Farhan, Saim Ayub, Mohammad Haris (wk), Fakhar Zaman, Salman Agha (c), Hasan Nawaz, Mohammad Nawaz, Faheem Ashraf, Shaheen Afridi, Sufiyan Muqeem, Abrar Ahmed

PAK vs SL Complete Squad

Sri Lanka - 

Charith Asalanka (c), Pathum Nissanka, Kusal Mendis, Kusal Perera, Nuwanidu Fernando, Kamindu Mendis, Kamil Mishara, Dasun Shanaka, Wanindu Hasaranga, Dunith Wellalage, Chamika Karunaratne, Maheesh Theekshana, Dushmantha Chameera, Binura Fernando, Nuwan Thushara, Matheesha Pathirana, Janith Liyanage.

Pakistan -

Salman Ali Agha (c), Abrar Ahmed, Faheem Ashraf, Fakhar Zaman, Haris Rauf, Hasan Ali, Hasan Nawaz, Hussain Talat, Khushdil Shah, Mohammad Haris, Mohammad Nawaz, Mohammad Waseem Jnr, Sahibzada Farhan, Saim Ayub, Salman Mirza, Shaheen Afridi, Sufyan Moqim.

PAK vs SL Today Match Prediction, Who Will Win the Match?

Sri Lanka to win

We predict that Sri Lanka will win this Asia Cup 2025 match. Pathum Nissanka, Kusal Mendis and Wanindu Hasaranga will be key players to watch out for.

Pakistan will face Sri Lanka for the first time in the Asia Cup 2025. Both Pakistan and Sri Lanka lost their first matches in the Super Four group. Both teams need to win today's match to keep their hopes of reaching the final alive. This match will be played at the Sheikh Zayed Stadium, Abu Dhabi, at 8:00 PM. In this article, we will explore PAK vs SL playing 11, pitch reports, and key players' stats.

PAK vs SL Super-4, Match 3 Match Details:

Pakistan's Team Preview:

Pakistan has lost its first Super Four match against India and will have to win both its upcoming matches to reach in the final. They lost their last game against India by 6 wickets. In this match, Pakistan’s star opener Sahibzada Farhan provided a quick start, scoring 58 runs on 45 balls, while Saim Ayub, Mohammad Nawaz and Faheem Ashraf supported well and put up a total of 171 runs, but they could not defend it.

In the bowling section, Haris Rauf bowled well and picked up 2 wickets while Faheem Ashraf and Abrar Ahmed took 1 wicket each.

Pakistan's Key players:

Sri Lanka Team Preview: 

Sri Lanka has also lost its first match of the Super Four against Bangladesh, and they are under immense pressure to win this match. The hopes of both teams to reach the finals will almost end with a defeat in today's match. Sri Lanka lost its last game against Bangladesh by 4 wickets.

In this match, all-rounder Dasun Shanaka played an explosive inning of 64 runs on 37 balls. Before that, Pathum Nissanka and Kusal Mendis provided a good start, scoring 22 and 34 runs respectively. In the bowling department, Wanindu Hasaranga and Dasun Shanaka impressed with the ball and took 2 wickets each.

Sri Lanka’s Key Players: 

Pakistan vs Sri Lanka Super-4, Match 3 Probable Playing XI

Pakistan: Sahibzada Farhan, Saim Ayub, Fakhar Zaman, Agha Salman, Mohammad Haris (WK), Mohammad Nawaz, Faheem Ashraf, Hussain Talat, Shaheen Afridi, Haris Rauf, Abrar Ahmed

Sri Lanka: Pathum Nissanka, Kusal Mendis (WK), Kamil Mishara, Kusal Perera, Charith Asalanka, Kamindu Mendis, Dasun Shanaka, Wanindu Hasaranga, Dunith Wellalage, Dushmantha Chameera, Nuwan Thushara

Scoring pattern at Sheikh Zayed Stadium, Abu Dhabi:

The pitches in Abu Dhabi are generally balanced, offering equal opportunities to both batsmen and bowlers. Spin bowlers also have some assistance, especially in the middle overs. The last match played at this venue was between India and Oman, and the Indian team posted 188 runs; in reply, Oman managed to reach 167 runs, highlighting a good surface for batters.

Pakistan vs Sri Lanka Super-4, Match 3, Expert Opinion and Match Prediction:

Sri Lanka is expected to win this game. Sri Lanka won all three group matches and topped the Group B point table. However, they suffered defeat in a nail-biting contest against Bangladesh, but Sri Lanka's overall performance so far is good compared to the Pakistan team.

Pakistan's middle-order batsmen's inconsistency is their major concern. If Sri Lankan openers tackle the initial overs of Shaheen Afridi, Haris Rauf, they can post a good total, and their experienced bowling attack can restrict Pakistan. 

Pakistan vs Sri Lanka Asia Cup 2025 Squad

Pakistan Squad: Sahibzada Farhan, Saim Ayub, Fakhar Zaman, Agha Salman, Mohammad Haris (WK), Mohammad Nawaz, Faheem Ashraf, Hussain Talat, Shaheen Afridi, Haris Rauf, Abrar Ahmed, Hasan Nawaz, Khushdil Shah, Sufiyan Muqeem, Hasan Ali, Mohammad Wasim, Salman Mirza

Sri Lanka Squad: Pathum Nissanka, Kusal Mendis (WK), Kamil Mishara, Kusal Perera, Charith Asalanka, Kamindu Mendis, Dasun Shanaka, Wanindu Hasaranga, Dunith Wellalage, Dushmantha Chameera, Nuwan Thushara, Nuwanidu Fernando, Chamika Karunaratne, Matheesha Pathirana, Maheesh Theekshana, Binura Fernando, Janith Liyanage

FAQ: Pakistan vs Sri Lanka 

When will the Pakistan vs Sri Lanka Super-4, Match 3 be played?

This match will be played at the Sheikh Zayed Stadium, Abu Dhabi, at 8:00 PM (IST).

What is the importance of this match in the Super-4 stage?

This clash is crucial as it could decide who secures a spot in the Asia Cup 2025 final.

Which players could make the biggest impact in PAK vs SL Super-4, Match 3?

Pathum Nissanka, Kusal Mendis, Fakhar Zaman and Sahibzada Farhan