Sri Lanka and Pakistan are set to cross paths once again as the second T20I of the three-match series takes place on Saturday in Dambulla. Pakistan are impressively carrying a 1-0 lead in the three-match series after a commanding performance in the opening game. They will be keen to seal the series with another strong outing. Meanwhile, Sri Lanka are facing mounting pressure to respond and keep themselves alive in the series.
The first T20I exposed Sri Lanka's struggle across all departments. Their batting lacked consistency and application. Their bowlers also struggled to keep Pakistan batters under pressure. Skipper Dasun Shanaka meanwhile admitted the shortcomings in team's performance in every department.
Pakistan, on the other hand, appeared far more settled and disciplined despite the absence of big players like Babar Azam, Shaheen Afridi and Haris Rauf. Heading into the second game, Pakistan will see it as an opportunity to finish the job early and secure a series-clinching win. For Sri Lanka, the second T20I presents an opportunity to stage their comeback and set up the final.
Head-to-head
Matches - 28
SL won - 11
PAK won - 17
Pakistan possible XI: Sahibzada Farhan, Saim Ayub, Fakhar Zaman, Salman Agha (c), Usman Khan (wk), Mohammad Nawaz, Shadab Khan, Faheem Ashraf, Mohammad Wasim, Salman Mirza, Abrar Ahmed
Sri Lanka possible XI: Pathum Nissanka, Kamil Mishara, Kusal Mendis (wk), Dhananjaya de Silva, Charith Asalanka, Dasun Shanaka (capt.), Janith Liyanage, Wanindu Hasaranga, Dushmantha Chameera, Maheesh Theekshana, Matheesha Pathirana