Pakistan vs Sri Lanka Prediction: Who Will Win PAK vs SL 2nd T20 Match on 9th January 2026?
The Pakistan vs Sri Lanka prediction for the 2nd T20I of the 2026 series carries significant importance as both teams head into a crucial phase of the contest. Scheduled for Friday, 9th January 2026, at the spin-friendly Rangiri Dambulla International Cricket Stadium, this encounter presents Sri Lanka with a must-win scenario after a disappointing performance in the series opener. Pakistan, meanwhile, will be keen to seal the series early by extending their dominance with another comprehensive display.
In the opening T20I, Pakistan outplayed Sri Lanka in all three departments, showcasing superior planning and execution. Their bowlers controlled the middle overs effectively, while the batters paced the chase smartly under pressure. Sri Lanka, despite playing at home, struggled to adapt to Pakistan’s disciplined bowling and lost wickets at regular intervals, eventually getting bowled out for a below-par total. This has put added pressure on captain Dasun Shanaka to extract a stronger response from his side.
Historically, Pakistan have enjoyed success against Sri Lanka in the shortest format, and recent form further strengthens their position as favorites. Their blend of young batting talent and experienced all-rounders has provided balance, while the spin attack looks particularly threatening on slower Sri Lankan surfaces. Sri Lanka, however, are known for bouncing back strongly at home, especially when conditions assist their spinners.
The Dambulla pitch often slows down as the game progresses, making adaptability a key factor. Teams that manage the middle overs well usually gain the upper hand. Considering current form, head-to-head records, and the confidence gained from the first match, the Pakistan vs Sri Lanka prediction leans firmly in Pakistan’s favor. However, Sri Lanka’s desperation to level the series could make this a closely fought contest if they improve their batting approach.
- Pakistan lead the series 1–0 after a dominant opening win
- Sri Lanka need a stronger batting performance to stay alive
- Dambulla conditions favor spinners and smart batting
- Pakistan hold a superior T20 head-to-head record
Match Details
| Match | PAK vs SL, 2nd T20 |
|---|---|
| Date | Friday, 9 January 2026 |
| Time | 7:00 PM IST |
| Venue | Rangiri Dambulla International Cricket Stadium |
| Series | Pakistan tour of Sri Lanka, T20I Series 2026 |
Team Preview
Sri Lanka Preview
Sri Lanka were thoroughly outplayed in the first T20I and will be eager to put up a more competitive performance. Their batting lineup failed to cope with Pakistan’s spin-heavy attack, losing wickets in clusters and never building momentum. Captain Dasun Shanaka faces the challenge of reworking the batting order to provide stability and intent in the powerplay.
Charith Asalanka and Kusal Mendis are key to Sri Lanka’s hopes. Both possess the ability to counter spin and accelerate when set. Janith Liyanage was the lone bright spot in the previous match, scoring a fighting 40, and he will be expected to shoulder responsibility again. Contributions from Pathum Nissanka and Dhananjaya de Silva will be crucial if Sri Lanka are to post or chase a competitive total.
Bowling remains Sri Lanka’s stronger suit. Wanindu Hasaranga was outstanding in the series opener, claiming four wickets for just 17 runs and keeping Pakistan under pressure. Mahesh Theekshana’s variations and Dushmantha Chameera’s pace add further depth. However, Sri Lanka need their bowlers to receive adequate scoreboard support to challenge Pakistan effectively.
Pakistan Preview
Pakistan enter this match full of confidence after a clinical display in the first T20I. Their batting was led by opener Sahibzada Farhan, who played a composed knock of 51, setting the foundation. Saim Ayub’s aggressive intent complemented him well, while the middle order ensured there was no collapse.
Captain Salman Agha has managed his resources smartly, particularly in the bowling department. Abrar Ahmed and Salman Mirza were exceptional in the opener, picking up three wickets each and exploiting the slow surface. Shadab Khan and Mohammad Nawaz further strengthened the spin attack, making Pakistan a formidable unit in these conditions.
Pakistan’s bowling depth and flexible batting order make them well-suited to Dambulla. With momentum on their side, they will aim to close out the series with another disciplined performance.
Team Squads
Sri Lanka: Dasun Shanaka, Charith Asalanka, Kusal Mendis, Pathum Nissanka, Kamil Mishara, Dhananjaya de Silva, Janith Liyanage, Wanindu Hasaranga, Mahesh Theekshana, Nuwan Thushara, Dushmantha Chameera
Pakistan: Salman Agha, Usman Khan, Sahibzada Farhan, Saim Ayub, Fakhar Zaman, Shadab Khan, Mohammad Nawaz, Abrar Ahmed, Salman Mirza, Naseem Shah, Mohammad Wasim Jr
Probable Playing XI
Sri Lanka: Dasun Shanaka (c), Charith Asalanka, Kusal Mendis (wk), Pathum Nissanka, Kamil Mishara, Dhananjaya de Silva, Janith Liyanage, Wanindu Hasaranga, Mahesh Theekshana, Nuwan Thushara, 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, Mohammad Wasim Jr
Pakistan vs Sri Lanka Today’s Dream11/Fantasy Prediction
| Role | Players |
|---|---|
| Wicketkeepers | Kusal Mendis, Usman Khan |
| Batters | Sahibzada Farhan, Saim Ayub, Charith Asalanka |
| All-rounders | Shadab Khan, Wanindu Hasaranga, Mohammad Nawaz |
| Bowlers | Abrar Ahmed, Salman Mirza, Dushmantha Chameera |
This fantasy team emphasizes all-round impact and spin dominance, crucial for Dambulla conditions. Sahibzada Farhan is a strong pick due to his form at the top, while Saim Ayub provides attacking value in the powerplay. Charith Asalanka and Kusal Mendis are Sri Lanka’s best batting options against spin.
All-rounders Shadab Khan and Wanindu Hasaranga are premium fantasy assets, offering points with both bat and ball. Mohammad Nawaz adds balance, especially on slow surfaces. In bowling, Abrar Ahmed and Salman Mirza have been in excellent form, while Dushmantha Chameera remains Sri Lanka’s best pace option.
Captain Choices: Shadab Khan, Wanindu Hasaranga
Vice-Captain Choices: Sahibzada Farhan, Charith Asalanka
Players to Avoid: Kamil Mishara, Nuwan Thushara
Also Check: Get The Best Fantasy Prediction From Cricket Experts
Favourite Team Today
Pakistan are the favourites in this match due to their superior form, stronger spin attack, and recent dominance over Sri Lanka. Their bowlers have adapted exceptionally well to Sri Lankan conditions, and the batting unit has shown composure under pressure. Sri Lanka, while talented, have struggled with consistency, particularly in the batting department. Pakistan’s balanced lineup and confidence from the series opener give them a clear edge.
Pakistan T20 History
| Matches | Won | Lost | NR |
|---|---|---|---|
| 288 | 167 | 114 | 7 |
Pakistan are one of the most successful T20I teams, known for their bowling depth and adaptability across conditions.
Sri Lanka T20 History
| Matches | Won | Lost | NR |
|---|---|---|---|
| 221 | 100 | 119 | 2 |
Sri Lanka have produced competitive T20 sides but have struggled with consistency in recent years.
Head-to-Head Stats
| Matches | Pakistan Won | Sri Lanka Won |
|---|---|---|
| 28 | 17 | 11 |
Pakistan hold a clear advantage in T20Is, winning the majority of encounters against Sri Lanka, including the only match played at Dambulla.
Also Check: Pakistan vs Sri Lanka Head to Head in T20
Pitch Report
The Rangiri Dambulla International Cricket Stadium pitch is traditionally slow and low, offering substantial assistance to spin bowlers as the match progresses. Early seam movement may be limited, but batting becomes trickier against quality spin due to variations in bounce and turn. Teams winning the toss often prefer batting first to avoid challenging conditions on a worn surface later in the innings. Constructing partnerships and rotating the strike are key at Dambulla, especially in the middle overs. A competitive first-innings total of 150–165 is generally considered par, while anything above that puts significant pressure on the chasing team. Death overs can be unpredictable, making execution and shot selection critical.
Weather Report
Clear and dry conditions are expected in Dambulla on match day, with minimal chance of rain. Temperatures will be moderate, aiding consistent play. There are no significant weather disturbances forecast, ensuring an uninterrupted T20 encounter.
Broadcast Details
The Pakistan vs Sri Lanka 2nd T20 will be broadcast live on FanCode in India. International audiences can follow coverage via regional sports networks and official ICC streaming partners. Ball-by-ball commentary and live score updates will also be available online.
Toss Prediction
At Dambulla, teams batting first have historically enjoyed an advantage due to deteriorating spin-friendly conditions later. Winning the toss could be strategic. Pakistan are slightly favored to win the toss and opt to bat first to post a defendable total under lights.
Probable Batsman & Bowler
In the Pakistan vs Sri Lanka 2nd T20, Sahibzada Farhan is likely to be the most impactful batsman for Pakistan. His recent form at the top makes him a strong contender to score heavily. Saim Ayub and Fakhar Zaman also possess the ability to capitalize on early powerplay overs. For Sri Lanka, Charith Asalanka is expected to be the key batting performer, with Janith Liyanage offering solidity and aggression when required.
Bowling at Dambulla will be crucial. Abrar Ahmed’s ability to extract turn and bounce should trouble Sri Lankan batters, while Salman Mirza offers raw pace from the other end. For Sri Lanka, Wanindu Hasaranga remains the most potent bowling threat due to his variations and control in the middle overs, while Mahesh Theekshana’s spin can stifle Pakistan’s scoring momentum.
Match Prediction
Considering recent form, pitch dynamics, and squad depth, the Pakistan vs Sri Lanka prediction favors Pakistan to win the 2nd T20. Pakistan’s batting and bowling units have shown superior adaptability and execution, particularly against spin in subcontinental conditions. Sri Lanka may fight back but will need improved batting resilience.
Final Verdict: Pakistan are expected to win the 2nd T20.
Also, once the toss takes place, we might modify the Today Match Prediction as per the playing XIs. Please check this blog after the toss for the updated Prediction.
FAQ – PAK vs SL 2nd T20
Who is likely to win the Pakistan vs Sri Lanka 2nd T20?
Pakistan are the favorites based on form and head-to-head records.
Where is the 2nd T20 being played?
The match will be held at Rangiri Dambulla International Cricket Stadium, Dambulla.
What time does the match start?
The 2nd T20 is scheduled to start at 7:00 PM IST.
What is the expected pitch condition at Dambulla?
The pitch is slow and spin-friendly, favoring teams that bat patiently and bowl disciplined spin.
Who are the top batsmen to watch in this match?
Sahibzada Farhan (Pakistan) and Charith Asalanka (Sri Lanka) are key batting threats.
Which bowlers are most likely to succeed?
Abrar Ahmed (Pakistan) and Wanindu Hasaranga (Sri Lanka) are expected to be top bowlers.
What score is considered competitive at Dambulla?
A total of 150–165 is generally competitive in this venue.
Disclaimer: Predictions are for entertainment purposes only. We don’t get involved in or promote betting or gambling. Also, We strongly discourage behaviors of participating in illegal activities related to cricket. Our experts try to be as correct as possible, but we do not guarantee 100% correctness.
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