SL vs PAK 2nd T20I Preview: Pitch Report, Fantasy Tips, Live Streaming & Injury Updates
Published on Jan 07, 2026 by Vikram Kumar
The second T20I between Sri Lanka and Pakistan moves once again to the spin-friendly Rangiri Dambulla International Stadium, where Pakistan took a 1-0 lead with a clinical win just two days ago. The opening match was a low-scoring thriller, as Sri Lanka’s batting collapsed for 128, and despite a spirited bowling effort, the hosts couldn’t defend the total.
With the series on the line, Sri Lanka will be desperate to bounce back, while Pakistan will look to seal the series by continuing their dominance with spin and disciplined bowling. For fantasy players, the trend is crystal clear so far: spinners and bowling all-rounders are running the show in Dambulla.
Match Details
- Match: Sri Lanka vs Pakistan, 2nd T20I
- Venue: Rangiri Dambulla International Stadium
- Date & Time: As per official schedule
- Series Status: Pakistan lead 1–0
Weather Report – Dambulla
Weather conditions look ideal for cricket:
- Temperature: 25°C - 27°C
- Humidity: Moderate to high
- Rain: No major threat
A slight dew factor could come into play in the second innings, which may help the chasing side marginally. However, the surface is expected to remain slow throughout the match.
Pitch Report – Rangiri Dambulla International Stadium
Dambulla continues to be a spinner’s paradise, and the numbers strongly back this up.
- Average score (last 5 matches): 134
- Spinner wickets: 40
- Pacer wickets: 33
Pitch Insight: The ball grips and turns, making timing extremely difficult. Power hitters struggle, while batters who can rotate strike and play spin patiently gain more value. Another low-scoring tactical battle is expected, where 140 could be a match-winning total.
Team News & Injury Updates
Sri Lanka
- No major injury concerns reported so far
- Batting reshuffle possible after the collapse in the 1st T20I
- Bowling unit expected to remain unchanged due to good performance
Pakistan
- No fresh injury updates
- Likely to stick with the winning combination
- Confidence high after strong spin performance
⚠️ Final Playing XIs will be confirmed after the toss.
Probable Playing XIs
Sri Lanka
Pathum Nissanka, Kamil Mishara, Kusal Mendis (wk), Dhananjaya de Silva, Charith Asalanka, Dasun Shanaka, Janith Liyanage, Wanindu Hasaranga, Maheesh Theekshana, Dushmantha Chameera, Nuwan Thushara
Pakistan
Saim Ayub, Sahibzada Farhan, Salman Agha, Fakhar Zaman, Usman Khan (wk), Shadab Khan, Mohammad Nawaz, Faheem Ashraf, Mohammad Wasim, Salman Mirza, Abrar Ahmed
Top Fantasy Picks – SL vs PAK 2nd T20I
Shadab Khan (PAK)
A complete fantasy package on turning tracks. He scored 122 fantasy points in the last match with both bat and ball. His leg-spin remains lethal in Dambulla.
Abrar Ahmed (PAK)
Mystery spin at its best. Abrar was nearly unplayable in the first T20I, picking up 3 wickets and troubling Sri Lankan batters consistently.
Wanindu Hasaranga (SL)
Dambulla suits him perfectly. Even in defeat, he contributed with both bat and ball and remains Sri Lanka’s biggest match-winner.
Salman Mirza (PAK)
The surprise star of the series so far. His 3-wicket haul in the first match makes him a strong differential pick for Mega Leagues.
Sahibzada Farhan (PAK)
One of the few batters who looked comfortable against spin, scoring a crucial 51 in a low-scoring game.
Captain & Vice-Captain Choices
Safe Picks (Small Leagues)
- Shadab Khan
- Wanindu Hasaranga
- Abrar Ahmed
Grand League Differentials
- Maheesh Theekshana
- Salman Mirza
- Dhananjaya de Silva
Fantasy Strategy for Dambulla
- Bowling First Approach: Load your team with spinners and bowling all-rounders
- Avoid Power Hitters: Stroke-makers who rotate strike are more valuable
- Spin Dominance: Pick at least 3–4 spinners across both teams
- Balanced Combination: A 3-4-3 or 3-5-2 combo favoring bowlers works best
Live Streaming & Broadcast Details
- Live Streaming: Available on Sony LIV
- Live Telecast: Sony Sports Network channels
Disclaimer
This preview is based on recent performances, pitch data, and publicly available information. Team combinations and conditions may change before the start of play. Fantasy sports involve risk—please use your own judgment and follow official updates.
