Pakistan is scheduled to play Sri Lanka in the first T20 International of their three-match series on Friday, October 9, 2026. Both teams will play in the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium at Rawalpindi, Pakistan in the first match of the series.
As Pakistan has a good opportunity to test their T20 combinations at home, Sri Lanka will attempt to challenge the hosts with a tough performance.
PAK vs SL 1st T20I: Date, Time, and Venue
The first Pakistan vs Sri Lanka T20I will take place on October 9 at Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium.
- Match: Pakistan vs Sri Lanka, 1st T20I
- Date: Friday, October 9, 2026
- Venue: Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium, Rawalpindi
- Start time: 6:00 PM Pakistan Standard Time (PKT)
- India time: 6:30 PM IST
- Toss: 5:30 PM PKT
The second T20I is scheduled for October 11, followed by the third match on October 13. All three games will be played at the same venue, as per PCB's official schedule.
Where to Watch PAK vs SL Live in India
Cricket fans in India should check the latest official broadcaster announcements before the match. The series was not scheduled for television broadcast in India according to Wisden on October 8; an Indian TV channel or streaming platform should not be assumed without official confirmation.
Pakistan vs Sri Lanka Live Telecast and Streaming Details
In Pakistan, the matches will be broadcast on PTV Sports, and streaming will also be available through Tapmad. The PCB has also announced streaming through the PCB Live app in some regions such as the United Kingdom, North America, the Caribbean, Europe, and Africa.
In Sri Lanka, viewers can follow the series via Dialog TV and Dialog Digital, according to the broadcast information. Availability may vary by location and service provider.
Pakistan vs Sri Lanka: Key Players to Watch
Pakistan will be led by Sahibzada Farhan, who has been made captain of the T20I team. The promotion is a big talking point ahead of the series. Saim Ayub, Fakhar Zaman, and fast bowler Naseem Shah will all have an opportunity to make an impact depending on the final team selection.
Sri Lanka will be led by Kusal Mendis. The visitors will try to combine their batting skills with disciplined bowling to contend with Pakistan at home. Vijayakanth Viyaskanth came in as a replacement for Wanindu Hasaranga’s injury, and Binura Fernando makes the team.
The confirmed playing XIs should be checked closer to the toss.
What to Expect from the Match
Pakistan will have the comfort of familiar conditions and home support, but Sri Lanka will be keen to make a strong start. The opening powerplay, middle-over partnerships, and control at the end of the game could decide a T20 match in which momentum can shift quickly.
With two more matches to play, the opening game may set the tone for the whole series.
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