Pakistan Sri Lanka T20I 2026 are set to face each other in the 1st T20 International on 7 January 2026, marking the beginning of an exciting T20 series. Both teams are entering a new phase with fresh combinations, making this match highly important for momentum and confidence.

Match Details
Match: Pakistan vs Sri Lanka, 1st T20I
Date: 7 January 2026
Venue: Sri Lanka
Format: T20 International
Pitch Report Pakistan Sri Lanka T20I 2026
The pitch is expected to be balanced, offering something for both batters and bowlers. Batters who spend time at the crease can score freely, while spinners are likely to get assistance as the match progresses. A first-innings score of 155–175 could be competitive.
Weather Report
Weather conditions look clear, with no significant threat of rain. Humidity may play a role later in the match, especially under lights.
Pakistan Team Preview
Pakistan will be led by Salman Ali Agha, as the team focuses on building a solid T20 core for the future. The batting lineup includes aggressive openers and middle-order players capable of accelerating in the death overs.
Pakistan’s bowling attack looks disciplined, with a mix of pace and spin that can challenge Sri Lankan batters on home conditions.
Key Players for Pakistan:
Salman Ali Agha
Saim Ayub
Fakhar Zaman
Shadab Khan
Naseem Shah
Sri Lanka Team Preview Pakistan Sri Lanka T20I 2026
Sri Lanka comes into this match with a strong T20 squad filled with experienced all-rounders and quality spinners. Playing at home gives them an advantage, especially in controlling the middle overs.
Sri Lanka will rely heavily on their spin attack and top-order stability to put pressure on Pakistan. https://cricketnovaglobal.com
Key Players for Sri Lanka:
Pathum Nissanka
Kusal Mendis
Charith Asalanka
Wanindu Hasaranga
Matheesha Pathirana
Probable Playing XI
Pakistan Probable Playing XI
Saim Ayub
Fakhar Zaman
Sahibzada Farhan
Salman Ali Agha (C)
Khawaja Nafay (WK)
Shadab Khan
Mohammad Nawaz
Faheem Ashraf
Naseem Shah
Abrar Ahmad
Usman Tariq
Sri Lanka (Probable XI)
Pathum Nissanka
Kamil Mishara
Kusal Mendis (WK)
Charith Asalanka
Dasun Shanaka (C)
Wanindu Hasaranga
Maheesh Theekshana
Dushan Hemantha
Matheesha Pathirana
Nuwan Thushara
Janith Liyanage
Head-to-Head Record
Pakistan has enjoyed a better overall record against Sri Lanka in T20 internationals, but Sri Lanka has often proved dangerous at home, especially on spin-friendly surfaces.
Match Prediction Pakistan Sri Lanka T20I 2026
Pakistan appears slightly stronger on paper with a more balanced bowling unit, while Sri Lanka’s home advantage and spin depth could make this a close contest.
Prediction: Pakistan has a slight edge, but Sri Lanka can win if their spinners dominate the middle overs.https://www.icc-cricket.com/matches
