Sri Lanka vs Pakistan 3rd T20I Preview: Decider Set at Dambulla as Series Hangs in Balance | Where to watch and Dambulla weather update

The third and final Twenty20 International between Sri Lanka and Pakistan is scheduled to take place today at the Rangiri Dambulla International Stadium, with the series outcome on the line after weather disruptions in the middle match. Pakistan currently lead the three-game series 1-0 after securing a comprehensive victory in the opening T20I, with the second fixture abandoned due to persistent rain in Dambulla.

Series Context and Stakes

Both teams are using this short T20I series — comprising three matches across January 7, 9 and 11 — as critical preparation ahead of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026, which begins in February and will be co-hosted by Sri Lanka and India. The series is therefore seen as a vital opportunity to sharpen combinations and assess form prior to the global event.

Pakistan’s early advantage stems from a convincing six-wicket win in the first T20I, in which they restricted Sri Lanka to a modest total and chased it down with relative ease. Star performers included bowlers who applied early pressure and Sahibzada Farhan in the batting lineup.

The second T20I was heavily impacted by weather, with persistent rainfall forcing the abandonment of the match before play could progress substantially — denying Sri Lanka the chance to level the series.

Preview: 3rd T20I Match Day

The decider, set for Sunday evening under lights, represents Sri Lanka’s last opportunity to prevent Pakistan from clinching the series 2-0. Sri Lanka’s top order will be under scrutiny after inconsistent starts earlier in the tour; history suggests that early wickets and middle-overs stability will be key for the hosts.

Pakistan, meanwhile, will look to replicate the clinical bowling and constructive batting approach that brought them success in the opening contest. With momentum on their side and a rhythm in both departments, they enter the decider as slight favourites.

Venue and Conditions

The Rangiri Dambulla International Stadium — known for its typically balanced surfaces that can assist both pace and spin attacks — will host its third T20I of the series. Weather forecasts suggest conditions remain cloudy but should allow for a full contest, unlike the second match which was marred by rain.

Team Outlook

• Sri Lanka: Expect potential tweaks to the batting order as the home side seeks greater consistency at the top. Spin bowling options may play a role if the surface assists later in the innings.
• Pakistan: Pakistan’s side, though missing a few regular internationals competing overseas, has shown depth, with emerging performers making valuable contributions. Their balanced attack could present challenges for Sri Lanka’s batters throughout the innings.

Watch and Follow

Cricket enthusiasts locally and globally can follow live coverage through broadcasters and digital streaming platforms hosting the tour. Official live scores and updates are available from major cricket news outlets as the match unfolds this evening.