road to ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 (Starting from February) There will be a sharp turn in Dambulla this week. With the mega-event approaching, this three-match series serves as an important dress rehearsal for both the Asian giants.
Whereas Sri Lanka They will focus on maximizing their house advantage and improving their spin combinations, Pakistan Comes with a new look squad. The visitors have opted to rest several marquee players (including Babar AzamMohammad RizwanAnd Shaheen Afridiwho is starring in BBL), handing over the reins to salman ali aga To test the bench strength of the country.
Sri Lanka and Pakistan squad outlook
Playing on home ground in Dambulla, Sri Lanka have doubled down on their biggest strength, spin. The team includes a formidable array of slow bowling options Wanindu Hasaranga, Mahesh Theekshana, Dunith Villageand uncapped off spinner traven matthew, Dasun Shanaka Has continued to lead the way by bringing stability to a volatile format. such as the inclusion of “slingers” Mathisha Pathirana And Nuwan Thusharawith young talent Ishaan MalingaThis ensures that the attack remains unconventional and difficult to pick out, even when the spin is not working. Like the return of experienced campaigners Kusal Perera And Dhananjay de Silva Pathum adds strength to the batting lineup, supporting the temperament of Nissanka and Kusal Mendis.
With their seniors in the BBL, Pakistan have fielded a team full of PSL performers and raw talent. The biggest headline is to include Osman TariqThe mysterious spinner whose stilted action has troubled the home batsmen. all eyes are on Shadab KhanHis return from injury is crucial for Pakistan’s World Cup balance, wicketkeeper-batsman Khwaja Nafe While the top order is expected to bring explosive power Sahebzada Farhan Got another extended run to cement his place. Even without Shaheen and Rauf, pace attack looks lethal Naseem Shah Leading the line, supported by the vulnerable Mohammad Wasim Jr and the emerging Mohammad Salman Mirza,
Sri Lanka vs Pakistan T20I series schedule
| match | date | venue | teams | Time (IST/GMT/Local) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1st t20i | Wed, 7 Jan 2026 | Rangiri Dambulla International Stadium, Dambulla | sri lanka vs pakistan | 7:00 pm / 1:30 pm / 7:00 pm |
| 2nd t20i | Fri, Jan 9, 2026 | Rangiri Dambulla International Stadium, Dambulla | sri lanka vs pakistan | 7:00 pm / 1:30 pm / 7:00 pm |
| 3rd t20i | Sun, 11 January 2026 | Rangiri Dambulla International Stadium, Dambulla | sri lanka vs pakistan | 7:00 pm / 1:30 pm / 7:00 pm |
Also read: No Mohammad Rizwan, Pakistan reveals provisional squad for T20 World Cup 2026
squads
Sri Lanka: Pathum Nissanka, Kamil Mishara, Kusal Mendis, Kusal Perera, Dhananjay de Silva, Charith Asalanka, Dasun Shanaka (captain), Zenith Liyange, Kamindu Mendis, Wanindu Hasaranga, Dunith Velalej, Mahesh Theekshana, Dushan Hemantha, Trawyn Mathews, Dushmantha Chameera, Mathisha Pathirana, Nuwan Thushara and Ishaan Malinga.
Pakistan: Salman Ali Aga (captain), Abdul Samad, Abrar Ahmed, Faheem Ashraf, Fakhar Zaman, Khawaja Nafe, Mohammad Nawaz, Mohammad Salman Mirza, Mohammad Wasim Jr., Naseem Shah, Sahibzada Farhan, Saeem Ayub, Shadab Khan, Usman Khan, Usman Tariq.
Broadcast and Live Streaming Details:
- Sri Lanka: Siyatha Television
- India: Sony Sports Network, Fan Code
- Pakistan: frenzy
Also read: Mahesh Theekshana is going to become a father, shares baby bump photo with wife Arthika