Sri Lanka vs Pakistan (3rd T20I): How Dambulla Played Host to a Thrilling T20 Clash

Introduction

The 3 rd T20 of Sri Lanka vs Pakistan provided the classic ending to the fans in Dambulla. This was an action-filled rain-plagued match. In a 12 over match, Sri Lanka held a decreased total and secured the victory by 14 runs. It was a trending game as both parties used it as a last-minute rehearsal before the 2026 T20 World Cup. Fantasy players and betters followed each ball – live odds and fantasy teams.

Match / Event Overview

Fixture: Sri Lanka v Pakistan, 3 rd T20I — Pakistan tour of Sri Lanka.
Place: An opulent club in San Francisco.
City: Rangiri Dambulla International Stadium, Dambulla.
Decision Sri Lanka 160/6 (12 overs) defeated Pakistan 146/8 (12 overs) Sri Lanka conquered Pakistan by 14 points (12-over game). Player of the Match named Wanindu Hasaranga.

Why it was important: the T20 world cup 2026 was also on the anvil of both the teams. The fast, high scoring breaknecks and spin bowling duel at Dambulla made it a perfect match to bet live and fantasy adjustment.

Head-to-Head Stats & History

Series context: Pakistan and Sri Lanka split the short series — each side had standout moments. The Dambulla pitch has produced both heavy totals and spin-driven defences. Bettors often look at toss trends and spin vs pace splits here.

Quick head-to-head (last 5 T20Is between them — quick summary):

Match Predictions / Player Analysis

What worked for Sri Lanka: aggressive top-order starts and late hitting from the lower middle. Dasun Shanaka and Janith Liyanage added momentum. Wanindu Hasaranga provided spin control with key wickets.

What Pakistan needed: a faster start in the chase and more control vs spin. Khawaja Nafay and Salman Agha tried to keep the chase alive, but expensive overs from key bowlers shifted the odds.

Small story: during the match, Sri Lanka exploded in the middle overs. A quick 50-run phase changed the run-rate. That phase was decisive — similar to other T20 chases where a 4-5 over burst wins the game.

Betting Tips & Odds Overview

• Match-winner (pre-match): Sri Lanka held slight favorites after they posted a big powerplay.
• Safe bets: back the team with in-form spinners in Dambulla; consider “top Sri Lanka spinner” markets.
• Risky bets: big-innings props for specific batters in rain-shortened games. Rain can shrink totals and skew over/under markets.
• Live betting note: odds change quickly during live cricket betting. When dew or rain interruptions happen, markets will swing. Always monitor toss update and live commentary before placing in-play stakes.

Key Players to Watch

1. Wanindu Hasaranga (SL) — spin wicket-taker and finisher; Player of the Match in this game.
2. Dasun Shanaka (SL) — captaincy and middle-order hitting; strong in power overs.
3. Salman Agha (PAK) — led the chase with a bright 45 in the reduced game.
4. Mohammad Wasim Jr (PAK) — strike bowler who troubled SL top order.

Each of these players can swing fantasy lineups and match-winner markets. For Dream11, prioritize Hasaranga and Shanaka as captain/vice-captain options in spin-friendly conditions.

Team News, Injuries & Lineup Updates

Sri Lanka Playing XI (3rd T20I, Dambulla):

1. Pathum Nissanka
2. Kamil Mishara
3. Kusal Mendis (wk)
4. Dhananjaya de Silva
5. Charith Asalanka
6. Dasun Shanaka (c)
7. Janith Liyanage
8. Wanindu Hasaranga
9. Eshan Malinga
10. Maheesh Theekshana
11. Matheesha Pathirana

Pakistan Playing XI (3rd T20I, Dambulla):

1. Sahibzada Farhan
2. Saim Ayub
3. Salman Agha (c)
4. Usman Khan
5. Khawaja Nafay
6. Mohammad Nawaz
7. Shadab Khan
8. Faheem Ashraf
9. Mohammad Wasim Jr
10. Naseem Shah
11. Abrar Ahmed

Injury notes: no major last-minute withdrawals were reported for this fixture. Always check live toss update and playing 11 prediction before placing bets.

Upcoming Fixtures & Impact on Betting

This T20 series served as a warm-up for the 2026 Men’s T20 World Cup (starts 7 Feb 2026). Performances here affect final squad selections and market confidence. Bettors often use these matches to spot emerging fantasy differentials.

Fantasy Cricket / Dream11 Tips

• Captain/VC picks: Wanindu Hasaranga ©, Dasun Shanaka (VC).
• Core players: Kusal Mendis, Janith Liyanage, Mohammad Wasim Jr.
• Differentials: Eshan Malinga or Janith Liyanage in smaller contests; pick them when bowling matchups favor their style.
• Formation: 3-4 batters, 1-2 allrounders, 3-4 bowlers. Balance is key in rain-shortened T20s.

Betting Guide for Indian Users

• Choose licensed cricket betting app or best cricket betting app with KYC.
• Set up an online cricket ID with secure payments. Use trusted online cricket betting sites and apps.
• For live events, use small stakes and manage bankroll. Use in-play markets like top batter or over/under with caution.
• Always confirm local laws before betting. (18+ only.)

Internal links to consider: cricket betting app, online cricket id, match predictions, cricket betting sites (insert these as anchors on your site).

Toss Prediction & Strategy

At Dambulla, toss matters more in dew-free nights. In this match, a batting-first approach worked after rain shortened the game. When dew is expected, chasing may be preferable. Always check the official sri lanka vs pakistan toss update before staking.

Responsible Betting Tips

• Set a daily/weekly budget.
• Use small percentages of bankroll per bet.
• Avoid chasing losses.
• Use licensed betting apps and confirm payout speed.
• If gambling becomes a problem, seek local help. 18+ / Play Responsibly.

FAQs

Q: Who won Sri Lanka vs Pakistan (3rd T20I)?
A: Sri Lanka won by 14 runs in a rain-reduced 12-over game on 11 Jan 2026.

Q: Where can I see the sri lanka vs pakistan 3rd t20i live score / full score?
A: Full scorecards and live commentary were on Cricbuzz and ESPNcricinfo.

Q: Which app is best to bet on this match?
A: Use licensed cricket betting apps with good reviews, quick ID activation, and secure payments (search for “best cricket betting app” on your site). Always do KYC.

Q: Is live betting available for this match?
A: Yes. Live markets were active and odds changed quickly during rain/wide overs.

Final Prediction & Best Bets

Pre-match best bets (based on form & pitch): small stake on Sri Lanka match-winner; top Sri Lanka spinner market.
In-play best bets: back Hasaranga for wickets if Pakistan are 30-2 vs spin. Avoid large multi-leg parlays in rain-affected games.

Appendix / Quick Reference Tables

Probable XIs (used in match):

Match key numbers: SL 160/6 (12 ov); PAK 146/8 (12 ov); SL won by 14 runs; Player of the Match: Wanindu Hasaranga.

CTA — Get Your Online Cricket ID

Ready to bet or play fantasy? Create your online cricket ID on a trusted platform. Look for: secure payments, quick ID activation, 24/7 support, and responsible-bet tools. Use small stakes and keep records. Play responsibly — 18+ only.