Sri Lanka Clinch Crucial Win Against Pakistan
Sri Lanka registered a crucial 14-run victory over Pakistan in the 3rd T20 International played on Sunday, 11 January 2026, keeping the series alive in dramatic fashion. The match, held at Rangiri Dambulla International Stadium, was affected by rain and reduced to 12 overs per side, turning it into a high-intensity contest.
With this win, Sri Lanka leveled the T20I series, delivering a strong response after Pakistan’s earlier success.
Rain Turns Match Into a Run-Fest
Persistent rain delays forced officials to shorten the match, and once play resumed, both teams went all out. Batting first, Sri Lanka took full advantage of the reduced format and posted an imposing total of 160 runs for 6 wickets in 12 overs — a challenging target under any conditions.
The pitch offered good bounce, and Sri Lankan batters attacked from the very first over.
Sri Lanka Batting: Explosive From Start to Finish
Sri Lanka’s innings was powered by fearless hitting and smart shot selection.
- Dasun Shanaka played a captain’s knock, smashing a rapid cameo that completely shifted momentum.
- Kusal Mendis provided stability while maintaining an aggressive strike rate.
- Late-order contributions ensured Sri Lanka crossed the 150-run mark, putting Pakistan under immense pressure.
The home side’s intent was clear: maximize every over in the shortened game.
Pakistan’s Chase Falls Short Despite Late Fightback
Pakistan began the chase with urgency but lost early wickets, putting them on the back foot. However, Salman Agha nearly pulled off a miracle with a breathtaking knock, striking the ball cleanly and keeping Pakistan in the hunt until the final overs.
Despite the late surge, Pakistan finished on 146 for 8, falling 14 runs short of the target.
Hasaranga Spins Web Around Pakistan
The difference between the two teams came down to Sri Lanka’s bowling discipline, led by Wanindu Hasaranga.
- Hasaranga delivered a match-winning spell, picking up four crucial wickets
- His breakthroughs halted Pakistan’s momentum at key moments
- Excellent support from the rest of the bowling unit ensured Sri Lanka defended the total successfully
Hasaranga was deservedly named Player of the Match for his all-round impact.
Match Summary
- Match: Sri Lanka vs Pakistan, 3rd T20I
- Date: Sunday, 11 January 2026
- Venue: Rangiri Dambulla International Stadium
- Sri Lanka: 160/6 (12 overs)
- Pakistan: 146/8 (12 overs)
- Result: Sri Lanka won by 14 runs
What This Win Means for the Series
This victory has revived Sri Lanka’s campaign, restoring confidence and momentum. For Pakistan, the loss highlighted concerns around bowling execution in pressure situations, especially in shortened matches.
With the series now wide open, fans can expect an exciting finish as both teams fight for dominance.
Final Thoughts
The Sri Lanka vs Pakistan 3rd T20I delivered exactly what cricket fans love — drama, big hits, pressure moments, and a thrilling finish. Sri Lanka’s aggressive batting and Hasaranga’s brilliance proved decisive in a match where every ball mattered.
Stay tuned for more updates, match previews, and post-match analysis from the Pakistan tour of Sri Lanka 2026.
