Pakistan vs Sri Lanka
Pakistan have taken a commanding 1–0 lead in the three-match T20I series against Sri Lanka after a convincing six-wicket victory in the first encounter at the Rangiri Dambulla International Stadium in Dambulla on January 7, 2026. Cricbuzz+1
This match did not just set the tone for the series but also acted as a vital dress rehearsal ahead of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026, with both teams testing combinations and form under pressure. The Economic Times
Toss and Team Decisions
Pakistan won the toss and opted to bowl first, a decision that paid immediate dividends. Skipper Salman Ali Agha backed his bowling attack to exploit the conditions on a two-paced pitch that offered some assistance early on. Cricbuzz
Sri Lanka Innings – Struggles on a Tricky Dambulla Track
Sri Lanka’s batting lineup never quite found rhythm on a surface that suited disciplined bowling:
- They were bowled out for 128 in 19.2 overs. Cricbuzz
- After a promising start, Sri Lanka lost early wickets and were reduced to 38 for 4 inside seven overs — a position no team likes to find itself in. ESPN
Janith Liyanage top-scored with a gritty 40 (23 balls), showing glimpses of aggression, but there were too many wickets falling around him. Cricbuzz
On the bowling side, Pakistan’s bowlers delivered a disciplined and incisive spell:
- Salman Mirza and Abrar Ahmed were the chief destroyers, with each grabbing three wickets. ESPN
- Shadab Khan, returning to international T20 action, picked up two crucial wickets. ESPN
The pressure built steadily and Sri Lanka never managed to post a challenging total. Cricbuzz
Pakistan Chase – Farhan Leads from the Front
Chasing 129 proved more straightforward than Sri Lanka’s innings looked, but it was far from a cakewalk until Sahibzada Farhan took charge.
Strong Opening Stand
- Sahibzada Farhan (51 off 36 balls) and Saim Ayub (24 off 18 balls) gave Pakistan a solid foundation with a 59-run opening partnership.
- Farhan’s half-century came at a strike rate above 140, featuring powerful ground strokes and clever placement. Cricbuzz
Farhan’s innings was instrumental in easing the chase — his composure and timing ensured Pakistan never slipped under pressure, even when regular wickets tumbled later. Cricbuzz
Middle and Late Overs
- For Pakistan, the middle order experienced a brief wobble as they lost three quick wickets around the 100-run mark.
- Even then, the target was well within reach thanks to Farhan’s venture and support from others. ESPN
Pakistan sealed the chase comfortably at 129/4 in 16.4 overs, winning by six wickets with 20 balls to spare. ESPN
This result reflects the efficiency of Pakistan’s chase — calculated and timed well.
Player of the Match: Shadab Khan
Although Farhan’s 51-run knock laid the foundation, Shadab Khan earned the Player of the Match award for his all-round contribution:
- He played a pivotal role with the ball, snaring wickets that kept Sri Lanka under control.
- Shadab also provided quickfire lower-order runs — 18 not out off 12 balls, helping Pakistan close out the chase with ease. ESPN Cricinfo
Key Performers and Turning Points
Pakistan’s Strength in Bowling
Pakistan’s bowling unit executed plans well on a pitch that offered variable bounce and subtle seam movement:
- Mirza and Abrar each recording three-wicket hauls stopped Sri Lanka from building partnerships. ESPN
- The disciplined line and length of the attack ensured Sri Lanka never found freedom.
Farhan’s Composure With the Bat
Farhan’s seventy-plus strike-rate plus stable approach under pressure was crucial. Coming in as an opener, he balanced aggression with maturity — an exciting sign for Pakistan ahead of bigger tournaments. Cricbuzz
What This Victory Means
This win puts Pakistan 1–0 up in the three-match T20I series. Taking the first match builds confidence and rhythm, especially with key players back in contention and bowlers finding good form ahead of the ICC T20 World Cup 2026. The Economic Times
For Sri Lanka, the batting collapse and early dismissal of crucial partnerships highlighted areas that need addressing before the next games.
Looking Ahead in the Series
The T20I series continues with the second and third T20Is, where both teams will look to either consolidate their momentum or bounce back. Form, consistency, and tactical decisions over these matches will matter greatly as both sides eye World Cup preparations and final touches to their squads. Cricbuzz
Match at a Glance – 1st T20I Result
| Team | Score | Result |
|---|---|---|
| Sri Lanka | 128 all out (19.2 overs) | Lost |
| Pakistan | 129/4 (16.4 overs) | Won by 6 wickets |
| Player of the Match | Shadab Khan | For bowling + batting contribution |
Series and Context
This T20I series forms a crucial part of both teams’ tactical build-up ahead of the 2026 ICC Men’s T20 World Cup — a tournament that Sri Lanka and India will jointly host. Regular cricketing rivalries and competitive fixtures like these provide platforms for players to stake claims for World Cup selection