Sri Lanka vs. Pakistan 2026 2nd T20I: Preview, when and where to watch in India?
Cricket enthusiasts in Dambulla are abuzz for the vital second T20I between Sri Lanka and Pakistan on January 9, 2026. With Pakistan leading 1-0 with Sri Lanka needing a win to stay in the series.
Last Updated: 03.37 PM, Jan 09, 2026
The cricket fever in Dambulla reaches a crescendo tonight, January 9, 2026, as Sri Lanka hosts Pakistan for the crucial second T20I of their three-match series. With the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 just weeks away, this series has transformed from a mere bilateral contest into a vital dress rehearsal for two of Asia's heavyweights. Following a clinical performance in the series opener, Pakistan holds a 1-0 lead. For the "Lankan Lions," tonight is a must-win encounter to keep the series alive and reclaim momentum on home soil.
Match details
Match: Sri Lanka vs. Pakistan 2026 2nd T20I
Dates: Friday, January 9, 2026.
Venue: 7 PM IST
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Where can I watch the Sri Lanka vs. Pakistan 2026 2nd T20I match online?
Cricket fans in India can watch the Sri Lanka vs. Pakistan 2026 2nd T20I match on SonyLIV via OTTplay Premium.
Head-to-head stats
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Total Matches
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28
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Sri Lanka won
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11
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Pakistan won
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17
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Last 5 meetings
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Pakistan leads 3-2
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Venue Record
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Pakistan leads 1-0 (in T20Is)
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Preview
After a dominant six-wicket victory on Wednesday, Pakistan looks to seal the series with a game to spare. In the first T20I, the Pakistani bowling attack exploited the conditions perfectly, restricting Sri Lanka to a modest 128 runs. Despite the slow nature of the pitch at the Rangiri Dambulla International Stadium, the visitors chased the target comfortably with 20 balls remaining.
Sri Lanka, led by Dasun Shanaka, will be searching for better application from their top order. While the pitch in Dambulla traditionally assists spinners and offers some early movement for seamers, the hosts failed to build partnerships in the first game. With dew expected to play a role in the second innings, the toss will once again be a pivotal factor.
Team news & possible XIs
Sri Lanka
The hosts might look to strengthen their middle order. Janith Liyanage was the lone bright spot in the previous game and will be expected to anchor the innings again. The spin duo of Wanindu Hasaranga and Maheesh Theekshana will be the keys to stifling the Pakistani batters in the middle overs.
Pakistan
Captain Salman Ali Agha has been impressive in his leadership, successfully navigating the absence of stars like Babar Azam and Shaheen Afridi (both committed to the Big Bash League). Naseem Shah leads the pace attack with ferocity, while Shadab Khan’s return provides the necessary all-round balance.