The Pakistan T20I Tri-Series delivers a high-stakes clash as hosts Pakistan meet the tactically sharp Sri Lanka at the lively Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium, Rawalpindi on 27 November. Scheduled for 13:00 UK, this key contest begins in the evening for Indian viewers at 18:30 IST. With both teams vying for a crucial advantage in the race to the final, expect a gripping, high-intensity T20 battle featuring aggressive batting, quality spin, and clever death-overs execution.
Form Guide
Pakistan
Pakistan enter this matchup with renewed confidence after strong showings with both bat and ball. Their top order has rediscovered rhythm, while the middle order has added much-needed stability. Their bowling attack—one of the best in world T20 cricket—continues to deliver with pace, swing, and crafty variations. Fielding remains an area they are steadily improving, especially in catching consistency.
- Opening pair providing solid platforms with improved strike rotation.
- Pace unit generating early breakthroughs and controlling death overs.
- Spin options tightening the game through disciplined middle-overs spells.
Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka arrive competitive and tactically sharp, buoyed by a young core growing in confidence. Their batting has shown greater fluency, particularly through their middle order, while their bowlers—especially the spinners—remain central to their plans. However, finishing with the bat and controlling the final overs with the ball remain areas needing improvement. Rawalpindi’s conditions will demand their very best.
- Middle order producing effective rebuilds and controlled acceleration.
- Spinners consistently creating wicket-taking pressure.
- Pace attack still seeking greater accuracy at the death.
Key Players
Pakistan
- Babar Azam – World-class anchor capable of crafting flawless top-order knocks.
- Mohammad Rizwan – Reliable opener whose consistency drives Pakistan’s powerplay tempo.
- Shaheen Afridi – Strike bowler delivering match-defining swings and deadly yorkers.
Sri Lanka
- Kusal Mendis – Form player and aggressive top-order threat for Sri Lanka.
- Wanindu Hasaranga – Elite leg-spinner providing vital breakthroughs and late-order hitting.
- Matheesha Pathirana – Slingshot quick renowned for fierce pace and pinpoint death bowling.
Pitch and Weather Conditions
The Rawalpindi surface traditionally offers a batting-friendly pitch with true bounce and excellent value for shots. Early seam movement is present but usually short-lived, making strokeplay easier as the innings progresses. Spinners must rely on variations rather than turn, while pacers will find success with clever length manipulation and change-of-pace deliveries. Conditions should be warm and dry at around 25–27°C with minimal wind—ideal for a high-scoring T20 game. A competitive first-innings total lies between 175–190.
Pakistan vs Sri Lanka – Prediction
Pakistan enter as favourites owing to stronger depth, home conditions, and proven match-winners across formats. If Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan provide a solid start and Shaheen Afridi strikes early, the hosts will be in control. Sri Lanka’s hopes rest heavily on Kusal Mendis setting the tone and Wanindu Hasaranga creating middle-overs pressure. Expect competitive passages of play, but Pakistan should edge this one—likely by 15–30 runs or 6–7 wickets if chasing.
Dream 11 Fantasy Picks
- Babar Azam – High-value, dependable run accumulator.
- Wanindu Hasaranga – Dual-impact pick with wickets and finishing potential.
- Shaheen Afridi – Premium strike bowler well-suited to Rawalpindi.
