Cricket fans in India are in for an exciting evening as the road to the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026 heats up with a crucial warm-up series. Pakistan will lock horns with co-hosts Sri Lanka in the first T20 International (T20I) today, Wednesday, January 7, 2026. The match will be played at the Rangiri Dambulla International Stadium in Dambulla, marking the beginning of a three-match series that serves as a final preparatory lap for both sides ahead of the global tournament next month.
Match Start Time and Venue
The first ball of the PAK vs SL 1st T20I is scheduled for 7:00 PM Indian Standard Time (IST). This day-night encounter promises high-octane action as both teams look to fine-tune their combinations. With the T20 World Cup squads yet to be officially announced, performances in this series will be critical for players hoping to secure their spot.
How to Watch Live: TV Channel and Streaming in India
For viewers in India, the live telecast of the Pakistan vs Sri Lanka T20I series will be available on the Sony Sports Network. Fans who prefer to stream the match online can tune in via the Sony LIV app or website. Additionally, live streaming will be accessible on the Fancode app and its official website. Ensure you have a stable internet connection to catch every boundary and wicket live.
Squad News and Key Absences
The series has already seen significant team news. In a surprising move, Sri Lanka has reinstated Dasun Shanaka as the T20I captain, taking over from Charith Asalanka. The Lankan squad for this series is expected to closely resemble their final World Cup team, making player roles and form a key watch.
On the other hand, Pakistan will be without some of their biggest stars. Regular captain Babar Azam and pace spearhead Shaheen Afridi are currently participating in Australia's Big Bash League (BBL) and are absent. This provides an opportunity for other players to step up under the leadership of all-rounder Salman Agha, who will captain the side.
Pakistan Squad: Saim Ayub, Fakhar Zaman, Abdul Samad, Khawaja Nafay, Usman Khan (w), Salman Agha (c), Mohammad Nawaz, Shadab Khan, Faheem Ashraf, Naseem Shah, Mohammad Wasim Jr, Salman Mirza, Usman Tariq, Sahibzada Farhan, Abrar Ahmed.
Sri Lanka Squad: Pathum Nissanka, Kamil Mishara, Kusal Mendis (w), Kusal Perera, Dhananjaya de Silva, Charith Asalanka, Dasun Shanaka (c), Wanindu Hasaranga, Kamindu Mendis, Dunith Wellalage, Matheesha Pathirana, Maheesh Theekshana, Nuwan Thushara, Traveen Mathew, Eshan Malinga, Janith Liyanage, Dushmantha Chameera.
Series Context and World Cup Implications
This three-match T20I series is more than just a bilateral contest; it is a vital part of both teams' final preparations for the T20 World Cup, which begins in just a month's time. As co-hosts, Sri Lanka will be eager to build momentum and confidence in home conditions. For Pakistan, testing their bench strength in the absence of key players will be crucial for squad depth assessment.
The outcome of this series could offer valuable insights into the strategies and form of both Asian cricketing giants ahead of the marquee event. All eyes will be on Dambulla tonight as the countdown to the World Cup intensifies with this exciting clash.
