Sri Lanka Seek T20I Revival as Pakistan Aim to Seal Series in Rawalpindi

Big picture – Pakistan go in as favourites

In the opening T20I on Friday, Pakistan illustrated that the dynamics of 2026 differ significantly from those of 2019. Seven years ago, Pakistan struggled to chase three consecutive Sri Lankan totals—two of which were lower than the 182 they successfully chased with ease just two days prior, and the third being exactly 182. With memories of that series still vivid, Sri Lanka, led by Kusal Mendis, defied conventional wisdom by choosing to bat first after winning the toss in Rawalpindi. Their aim was to replicate the successful formula from seven years prior.

However, the first match offered several key insights. The Rawalpindi pitch, unlike typical subcontinental T20 surfaces, did not heavily favor finger spin, prompting the hosts to field three specialist fast bowlers. Pakistan, boasting at least five potential openers, also adjusted their batting lineup, promoting the experienced Fakhar Zaman to the top order while slotting Saim Ayub down to number five.

Conversely, Sri Lanka gained valuable takeaways regarding opener Lahiru Udara. Despite limited international experience, the 32-year-old’s T20 prowess and composure under pressure were evident. Udara stood as the sole resilient batter for his team for much of the innings, a testament to his individual quality, though it also highlighted the broader struggles of Sri Lanka’s batting lineup. With Dunith Wellalage, who possesses limited power-hitting capabilities, occupying the number seven spot, the visitors may need to bolster their batting depth.

Yet, the implications of a single T20I at the start of an extensive tour should not be overemphasized. Pakistan now has the chance to clinch the series by securing victory in the second match, also scheduled for Sunday in Rawalpindi. Following their commanding display in the opener, they are the clear favorites. For Sri Lanka, the concern is that this lackluster performance follows three heavy defeats in England. On Sunday, they will aim to prove that this is merely a temporary dip rather than a true reflection of their current T20I capabilities.

Form guide

Pakistan: WLWWL (last five completed matches, most recent first)
Sri Lanka: LWLLL

In the spotlight – Naseem and Theekshana

Naseem Shah’s last T20I appearance prior to Friday was seven months ago. Ironically, that match was also against Sri Lanka, where he conceded 36 runs in four overs as Pakistan was eliminated from the T20 World Cup—an identical economy stat to his performance in Rawalpindi. However, his recent outing included two wickets, offering further clarity on his current standing in the format. This performance caps a turbulent year for the fast bowler, who has been rebuilding his career after facing disciplinary action from the PCB during the PSL, followed by a months-long injury layoff.

Naseem has steadily rebuilt his form with solid performances in a domestic 50-over competition and the Caribbean Premier League. While there are signs that a foundation for a strong resurgence is emerging, it is still too early to make definitive assessments.

Maheesh Theekshana bowled with a remodelled action in the first T20I against Pakistan•Getty Images

Maheesh Theekshana also conceded 36 runs in his four overs during the opening match against Pakistan. However, Sri Lanka will likely expect more from their lead spinner, a role he has assumed in the absence of the injured Wanindu Hasaranga. Beyond the figures, it was Theekshana’s bowling action that drew significant attention—a poorly concealed imitation of Sikandar Raza’s style, deviating from the more conventional delivery action he is typically known for.

This altered action seemingly hindered his ability to vary his pace effectively, allowing Sahibzada Farhan to easily dispatch the quicker deliveries. Whether this remodelled technique will persist remains a key point of interest for the remainder of the series.

Team news – Will Wellalage be pushed down?

Pakistan captain Sahibzada Farhan expressed immense satisfaction with his team’s performance in the first T20I. Consequently, fielding an unchanged lineup for the second match would come as no surprise.

Pakistan: 1 Sahibzada Farhan (capt), 2 Fakhar Zaman, 3 Maaz Sadaqat, 4 Hasan Nawaz, 5 Saim Ayub, 6 Khawaja Nafay (wk), 7 Shadab Khan, 8 Mohammad Imran, 9 Razaullah, 10 Naseem Shah, 11 Abrar Ahmed

Batting Dunith Wellalage at number seven may be positioning him too high in the order. To enhance their batting depth, Sri Lanka might consider including Sineth Jayawardena in place of Nuwan Thushara, who conceded 32 runs in his three overs during the previous match.

Sri Lanka: 1 Lahiru Udara, 2 Kusal Mendis (capt, wk), 3 Sineth Jayawardena, 4 Kamindu Mendis, 5 Kamil Mishara, 6 Sahan Arachchige, 7 Dasun Shanaka, 8 Dunith Wellalage, 9 Dushmantha Chameera, 10 Maheesh Theekshana, 11 Eshan Malinga

Kusal Mendis is 90 runs away from overtaking Pathum Nissanka as Sri Lanka’s highest T20I run-scorer•Getty Images

Pitch and conditions

The presence of extra grass on the Rawalpindi surface provided assistance to the quicker bowlers. With a fresh pitch expected for Sunday, similar conditions are anticipated. Temperatures are forecast to remain pleasant for the evening match.

Stats and trivia

• No team has defeated Pakistan five times in T20Is on home soil. Sri Lanka, with four victories, have the opportunity to become the first side to achieve this milestone.
• The 29 extras conceded by Pakistan on Friday marked the highest they have ever leaked in a T20I. Their previous record was 20 extras against Sri Lanka during the group stage of the 2009 World T20.
• Kusal Mendis is 90 runs away from surpassing the injured Pathum Nissanka as Sri Lanka’s highest T20I run-scorer.

Danyal Rasool is Cricinfo’s Pakistan correspondent. @Danny61000

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