Sri Lanka vs Pakistan 1st T20I: Pakistan Crush Sri Lanka with Dominant 6-Wicket Win
Sri Lanka vs Pakistan 1st T20I delivered a commanding start to the T20I series as Pakistan registered a dominant six-wicket victory with 20 balls remaining at the Dambulla International Stadium on January 06, 2026. Pakistan outplayed Sri Lanka in all departments, using disciplined bowling and a composed batting approach to secure a deserved 1–0 lead in the series.
The opening match highlighted Pakistan’s superior execution under pressure, while Sri Lanka once again struggled to convert starts into a competitive total. From early breakthroughs to a calm chase, Pakistan remained in control for most of the contest.
Sri Lanka vs Pakistan 1st T20I: Sri Lanka’s Powerplay Problems Continue
Batting first, Sri Lanka failed to gain early momentum as Pakistan struck at crucial moments during the powerplay. The hosts managed just 35 runs for the loss of two wickets in the first six overs, placing immediate pressure on the middle order.
Pakistan’s bowlers bowled with discipline, keeping a tight channel and denying Sri Lanka easy scoring opportunities. The lack of intent during the early overs forced Sri Lanka into a rebuilding phase far too early in the innings.
A key moment came in over 6.3 when Kusal Mendis (BKG Mendis) was given out. Sri Lanka opted for a review, but the decision stood as Umpire’s Call. The dismissal halted Sri Lanka’s attempt to stabilize and shifted momentum firmly towards Pakistan.
Middle Overs Define the Sri Lanka vs Pakistan 1st T20I
Despite efforts to rebuild, Sri Lanka continued to lose wickets at regular intervals. They reached 50 runs in 9.2 overs, with extras contributing only three runs, reflecting their struggles to rotate strike.
Pakistan’s bowlers maintained control through the middle overs by varying pace and length effectively. The larger boundaries at Dambulla worked in their favor, forcing mistimed shots and preventing Sri Lanka from finding consistent boundaries.
Sri Lanka eventually crossed the 100-run mark in 14.3 overs, but the damage had already been done. The absence of meaningful partnerships meant the lower order was left with too much to do in the final overs.
Sri Lanka vs Pakistan 1st T20I: Sri Lanka Bowled Out for 128
Sri Lanka’s innings came to an end at 128 all out in 19.2 overs, with Nuwan Thushara remaining unbeaten on 0. The total was well below par on a surface that rewarded patience and smart shot selection.
The final wicket came via a successful DRS call by Pakistan. In over 19.2, the on-field decision against Maheesh Theekshana was reviewed and upheld, officially ending Sri Lanka’s innings.
Pakistan’s bowlers deserve credit for their consistency and awareness, as they never allowed Sri Lanka to gain control at any stage of the match.
Pakistan’s Confident Start Shapes the Sri Lanka vs Pakistan 1st T20I
Chasing a target of 129, Pakistan began with clarity and intent. The openers attacked from the outset, racing to 59 runs for the loss of one wicket in the powerplay and immediately putting Sri Lanka under pressure.
Pakistan reached 50 runs in just 4.1 overs, underlining the contrast in approach between the two sides. The opening partnership added 50 runs in 25 balls, effectively setting the tone for a comfortable chase.
Sri Lanka managed a breakthrough in over 4.4 when a successful review resulted in the dismissal of Saim Ayub. However, Pakistan had already seized momentum and kept the required run rate firmly under control.
Sahibzada Farhan Anchors Pakistan’s Chase
The standout performer of the match was Sahibzada Farhan, who played a mature and composed innings at the top of the order. Farhan scored 50 off 35 balls, including four fours and two sixes, providing stability during the chase.
His ability to rotate strike and pick the right deliveries to attack ensured Pakistan never felt pressure. Farhan’s calm presence allowed the middle order to play freely and avoid unnecessary risks.
Pakistan reached 100 runs in 11.3 overs, with extras contributing seven runs, and the result was effectively sealed well before the final overs.
Sri Lanka vs Pakistan 1st T20I Ends in Comprehensive Pakistan Win
Pakistan crossed the target with 20 balls remaining, sealing a six-wicket victory and underlining their dominance in the Sri Lanka vs Pakistan 1st T20I. The win reflected Pakistan’s superior planning, execution, and adaptability to conditions.
For Sri Lanka, the match exposed familiar batting issues, particularly the inability to build partnerships and finish strongly. Despite playing at home, they failed to post a total that could challenge a disciplined Pakistan side.
With this result, Pakistan take a 1–0 lead in the T20I series and will look to build on their momentum in the upcoming matches. Sri Lanka, meanwhile, will need to regroup quickly and address their batting inconsistencies ahead of the next game.
