Dambulla: Pakistan will open 2026 against Sri Lanka in the first T20I of the three-match series at the Rangiri Dambulla International Cricket Stadium (RTCS) on Wednesday.
On Tuesday, the Pakistan team was forced to cancel their practice session as the ground continued to rain, raising concerns that rain could also affect play during the matches.
The stadium was completely covered as Pakistan captain Salman Ali Agha and his Sri Lankan captain Dasun Shanaka posed with the series trophy on the roof.
However, the weather is expected to be moderately cool and comfortable, with temperatures around 22°C and actual feeling of 21°C.
Humidity remains relatively high at 73%, giving the air a slightly heavy feel, although conditions remain dry with no immediate threat of precipitation.
The sky is completely overcast with 100% cloud cover, producing dim lighting, but visibility is good at 11 km. The 9,100 meter high cloud ceiling rules out any danger of mist or fog.
Northeast wind blowing at 13 km/h, gusts up to 32 km/h may be observed at times. Air quality is poor, and people with respiratory problems are advised to limit prolonged outdoor exposure.
The remaining two matches of the series are scheduled for January 9 and 11 at the same venue.
The series serves as a key warm-up platform for both sides ahead of the 2026 ICC Men’s T20 World Cup to be held in India and Sri Lanka from February 7 to March 8.
Pakistan and Sri Lanka enter the series with different momentum.
The Green Shirts are coming off a home T20I tri-series against Zimbabwe and the 2014 champions, while Sri Lanka look to return to form.
Historically, the two teams have faced each other in 27 T20I matches, of which Pakistan have won 16 and Sri Lanka 11.
Groups:
Pakistan: Salman Ali Agha (c), Abdul Samad, Abrar Ahmed, Faheem Ashraf, Faqar Zaman, Khawaja Nafe (wk), Mohammad Nawaz, Mohammad Salman Mirza, Mohammad Wasim Jr, Naseem Shah, Sahibzada Farhan (wk), Saim Ayub, Uz Khan, Uqman Khan and Uqman.
Sri Lanka: Dasun Shanaka (catch), Pathum Nissanga, Kamil Mishara, Kusal Mendis, Kusal Perera, Dhananjaya de Silva, Sarith Asalanga, Janith Lienake, Kamindu Mendis, Vanindu Hasaranga, Dunit Vellalake, Mahish Dikshana, Dushana Hemantha, Dusnan Samantha, Traman Samantha, Traman Samantha, Nuwan Tushara and Eshaan Malinga.