SL vs PAK 2nd T20I, Pitch Report, Head to Head, Playing 11, AI Prediction

The Rangiri Dambulla International Stadium in Dambulla is set to host the 2nd T20I of the three-match series between Sri Lanka (SL) and Pakistan (PAK) on Friday, January 9, 2026. Pakistan leads the series 1-0 after an impressive six-wicket win in the opening encounter on Wednesday.

Match Details: SL vs PAK

Match Preview

The Sri Lankan Lions struggled with their batting in the first T20I, failing to convert starts into meaningful totals. Janith Liyanage showed glimpses of promise, but the rest of the batting line-up fell short. With the T20 World Cup approaching at home, Sri Lanka will be keen to bounce back in this second encounter and avoid losing the series.

Pakistan, on the other hand, played a balanced and dominant game in the opener. Contributions from both bat and ball helped them chase the modest target of 129 with 20 balls to spare. The Men in Green will look to continue their winning momentum and seal the series with a second victory, boosting their confidence ahead of the T20 World Cup.

Head-to-Head Record (T20Is): SL vs PAK

Pakistan has had the upper hand historically, winning more encounters against Sri Lanka in T20Is.

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Weather & Pitch Report: Rangiri Dambulla International Stadium

• Weather Report: A 25% chance of rain is expected during the match. The temperature will be around 24°C, with humidity near 90%, creating slightly humid conditions for the players.
• Pitch Report: The Dambulla wicket is slow and low, with uneven bounce that deteriorates over time. The new ball is ideal for stroke-making early on, but shot execution becomes difficult as the ball gets older. Historically, teams chasing have fared better at this venue, making the toss an important factor.

Probable Playing 11

Sri Lanka (SL) Playing 11

1. Pathum Nissanka, 2. Kamil Mishara, 3. Kusal Mendis (wk), 4. Dhananjaya de Silva, 5. Charith Asalanka (c), 6. Dasun Shanaka, 7. Janith Liyanage, 8. Wanindu Hasaranga, 9. Dushmantha Chameera, 10. Maheesh Theekshana, 11. Nuwan Thushara

Pakistan (PAK) Playing 11

1. Sahibzada Farhan, 2. Saim Ayub, 3. Salman Ali Agha (c), 4. Fakhar Zaman, 5. Usman Khan (wk), 6. Shadab Khan, 7. Mohammad Nawaz, 8. Faheem Ashraf, 9. Mohammad Wasim, 10. Salman Mirza, 11. Abrar Ahmed

Who Will Win Today’s Match? (AI Prediction)

Pakistan heads into the second T20I with momentum and a well-rounded team performance from the first game. Their all-round strength and prior experience in Dambulla make them favorites, while Sri Lanka will need substantial contributions from their top and middle order to stay in contention.

AI Match Prediction: Pakistan is likely to win the 2nd T20I against Sri Lanka and take a 2-0 lead in the series.

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