Introduction
Get the best SL vs PAK Dream11 Prediction 1st T20I 2026. Check Sri Lanka vs Pakistan fantasy tips, Dambulla pitch report, probable Playing XI, and live streaming details. The T20 excitement returns as Sri Lanka hosts Pakistan for a thrilling three-match series, kicking off with the SL vs PAK 1st T20I at the Rangiri Dambulla International Stadium. With the T20 World Cup on the horizon, both teams are eager to test their squad depth and find the perfect combination.
For fantasy cricket enthusiasts, this match offers a goldmine of opportunities. Will the spin-friendly Dambulla track favor Wanindu Hasaranga, or will Pakistan’s new-look pace attack under Salman Agha steal the show? In this blog, we provide a detailed SL vs PAK Dream11 prediction, covering pitch analysis, key player stats, and winning strategies to help you dominate your fantasy leagues.
Match Summary
Here are the essential details for today’s match to help you plan your schedule and fantasy teams.
| Feature | Details |
| Match | Sri Lanka vs Pakistan, 1st T20I |
| Series | Pakistan Tour of Sri Lanka, 2026 |
| Date | Wednesday, January 07, 2026 |
| Time | 7:00 PM Local (1:30 PM GMT / 7:00 PM IST) |
| Venue | Rangiri Dambulla International Stadium, Dambulla |
| Live Stream | FanCode, Sony Sports Network (varies by region) |
Key Highlights: Pitch Report & Head-to-Head
Rangiri Dambulla Pitch Report
The surface at Dambulla is generally known for being a balanced track that favors batters in the initial overs but assists spinners as the game progresses.
- Average 1st Innings Score: 165–175 runs.
- Spin vs Pace: Spinners are crucial in the middle overs due to the grip and turn available.
- Toss Factor: Chasing can be tricky if the pitch slows down, but dew might come into play in a night match. However, stats show a fairly balanced record for teams batting or bowling first.
SL vs PAK Head-to-Head in T20Is
Pakistan has historically held the upper hand against Sri Lanka in the shortest format.
- Total Matches: 24+
- Pakistan Won: ~14–16 matches
- Sri Lanka Won: ~10–11 matches
- Key Insight: While Pakistan leads the overall H2H, Sri Lanka is a formidable force at home, especially with their spin attack suited to Dambulla conditions.
Probable Playing XI
Based on the squads announced for the tour, here is the likely lineup for both teams.
Sri Lanka Probable XI:
Pathum Nissanka, Kusal Mendis (wk), Kusal Perera, Charith Asalanka, Dasun Shanaka (c), Wanindu Hasaranga, Kamindu Mendis, Maheesh Theekshana, Matheesha Pathirana, Nuwan Thushara, Dilshan Madushanka/Dushmantha Chameera.
Pakistan Probable XI:
Saim Ayub, Sahibzada Farhan/Fakhar Zaman, Usman Khan (wk), Salman Agha (c), Shadab Khan, Abdul Samad, Mohammad Nawaz, Faheem Ashraf, Naseem Shah, Mohammad Wasim Jr, Abrar Ahmed.
Player Performances & Dream11 Fantasy Picks
To create a winning SL vs PAK Dream11 team, you need to focus on players who have a high impact in specific conditions.
Top Picks for Batters
- Pathum Nissanka (SL): Consistent at the top and plays spin well. He is often the anchor for Sri Lanka.
- Fakhar Zaman (PAK): If he plays, his aggressive approach in the powerplay can yield quick points.
- Saim Ayub (PAK): A dynamic youngster known for his “no-look” shots and ability to clear boundaries easily.
Top Picks for All-Rounders
- Wanindu Hasaranga (SL): A must-have captaincy choice. He takes wickets in clusters at Dambulla and contributes with the bat.
- Shadab Khan (PAK): A genuine wicket-taker and handy batter. His leg-spin will be vital on this track.
- Salman Agha (PAK): As captain and batting all-rounder, he is likely to take responsibility in the middle order.
Top Picks for Bowlers
- Matheesha Pathirana (SL): His slingy action makes him deadly in the death overs. He is a high-value pick for fantasy points.
- Naseem Shah (PAK): Brings raw pace and can strike early with the new ball.
- Maheesh Theekshana (SL): Excellent in the powerplay and economical, forcing batters to make mistakes.
SL vs PAK Dream11 Prediction 1st T20I: Captain & Vice-Captain
- Small League Captain: Wanindu Hasaranga (Safe bet due to dual role).
- Small League Vice-Captain: Kusal Mendis (Reliable wicket-keeper batter).
- Grand League Captain: Matheesha Pathirana (High wicket-taking potential).
- Grand League Vice-Captain: Saim Ayub (High risk, high reward).
FAQs
1. Who will win the 1st T20I between SL vs PAK?
Sri Lanka has the home advantage and a spin attack suited to Dambulla, making them slight favorites. However, Pakistan’s unpredictable nature always keeps them in the hunt.
2. What is the average score at Rangiri Dambulla International Stadium?
The average first innings score in T20Is at Dambulla is around 165-175 runs.
3. Is the Dambulla pitch good for spinners or pacers?
It generally assists spinners in the middle overs, but pacers can get early movement with the new ball.
4. Where can I watch the SL vs PAK match live?
Viewers in India can stream the match on FanCode or watch on Sony Sports Network channels (check local listings).
5. Who is the best captain choice for Dream11 today?
Wanindu Hasaranga is the best choice due to his ability to take wickets and score quick runs.
