Sri Lanka Seal Series With Thrilling Victory Over Pakistan in 3rd T20I

In a rain-affected finale to the three-match T20I series, Sri Lanka produced a spirited performance at the Rangiri Dambulla International Stadium on 11 January 2026 to clinch the third T20I by 14 runs and level the series after the second game was washed out. The hosts, batting first, posted a competitive total before restricting Pakistan in a high-pressure chase.

Match Summary

• Venue: Rangiri Dambulla International Stadium, Dambulla
• Date: 11 January 2026
• Match: 3rd T20I (rain-shortened to 12 overs per side)
• Result: Sri Lanka won by 14 runs
• Toss: Pakistan won and elected to field
• Series Outcome: Sri Lanka levelled the series after Pakistan had won the first game and the second was rained out.

Sri Lanka Bat First & Post 160/6

Sri Lanka put up a challenging score of 160/6 in their 12 overs, adapting well to the shortened format. The momentum came from aggressive batting in the middle overs, with key contributions from:

• Dasun Shanaka: A blistering 34 runs off just 9 balls, striking at an exceptional rate and turning the innings toward the back end.
• Kusal Mendis: Anchored the middle with a quickfire 30 off 16 deliveries.

These crucial efforts helped Sri Lanka recover from early setbacks and accelerate effectively in the final overs.

Pakistan’s Response Under Pressure

Chasing 161 in 12 overs, Pakistan began positively but lost regular wickets as Sri Lanka’s bowlers struck at key moments. The touring side finished on 146/8, falling short of the target. Notable performances included:

• Salman Agha: A rapid 45 off 12 balls kept Pakistan in touch with the target in the initial overs.
• Mohammad Nawaz: A composed 28 off 15 balls during the middle phase of the chase.

Despite glimpses of resistance, Pakistan couldn’t match Sri Lanka’s scoring rate, especially in the final over, and were undone by disciplined bowling.

Bowling Heroes for Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka’s bowling unit delivered under pressure, picking crucial wickets at pivotal moments:

• Wanindu Hasaranga: A match-winning spell with figures of 3-0-35-4, running through the Pakistan batting order and breaking key partnerships.
• Matheesha Pathirana: Provided excellent support with 3 overs, conceding just 34 while claiming 2 wickets.

Their combined effort in the middle overs ensured Pakistan never truly got in control of the run chase.

Weather and Match Context

The series itself had already been disrupted by weather, with persistent rain affecting the second T20I. The final game was reduced to 12 overs per side under revised playing conditions, placing a premium on aggressive batting and tight bowling. Both teams treated the series as valuable preparation for the upcoming T20 World Cup, using opportunities to test combinations and batting depth.

Key Stats

• Sri Lanka Innings: 160/6 (12 overs)
• Pakistan Innings: 146/8 (12 overs)
• Player of the Match: Wanindu Hasaranga for his four-wicket haul.

What’s Next?

With the series tied after the three matches — one win each and one washout — both sides will reflect on positives and areas for improvement ahead of more competitive fixtures on the international calendar. Sri Lanka, in particular, will take confidence from their ability to post a strong total under duress and restrict a powerful Pakistani batting lineup.