SL vs PAK 3rd T20I Live: Streaming, Squads & Match Preview 2026

The floodlights at the Rangiri Dambulla International Stadium are on, but the covers might still be hovering. As the cricketing world turns its eyes to Dambulla for the third and final T20I between Sri Lanka and Pakistan, the atmosphere is charged with more than just series anticipation.

With the ICC T20 World Cup 2026 mere weeks away—set to be co-hosted by India and Sri Lanka—this match is not just a series closer; it is the final dress rehearsal. For Pakistan, it is a test of their bold “new look” squad. For Sri Lanka, it is about defending their fortress before they welcome the world.

However, fans tuning in might face a slight wait, as reports indicate a “Match Delayed” status, likely due to weather or outfield conditions common in Dambulla evenings.

The Context: A World Cup Audition

This series has been fascinating, primarily because of the names not on the team sheet. Pakistan has made a daring strategic move by resting titans like Babar Azam and Shaheen Afridi. Instead, the reins have been handed to Salman Ali Agha, leading a squad that feels like a glimpse into the future.

Pakistan took the early advantage in the series, winning the 1st T20I comfortably by six wickets. Their ability to chase down 129 with balls to spare showed maturity, but tonight is about consistency. Can this young brigade finish the job away from home?

Where to Watch: Global Broadcast & Streaming Guide

Cricket fans are spread across the globe, and finding the right channel can be a hassle. Here is the ultimate guide to catching the live action for the 3rd T20I.

In Sri Lanka (The Hosts)

Local fans have the best deal. The match is being broadcast on Siyatha Television.

• Digital: For the cord-cutters, Sri Lanka Cricket’s YouTube channel is offering free live streaming, a fantastic initiative to broaden reach.
• Others: Streaming is also available via Ten Cricket, Dialog, and IPTV – SLT.

In Pakistan

With the match starting at 7:00 PM local time, prime time viewing is guaranteed.

• TV: The trusted duo of PTV Sports and Geo Super will telecast the match.
• Streaming: Digital natives can tune in via Tamasha, Tapmad, and Myco.

In India & Subcontinent

Indian fans, keeping a close eye on their World Cup co-hosts and arch-rivals, can watch via the Sony Sports Network.

• Streaming: The match is live on Sony LIV and the FanCode app/website.

Rest of the World

• UK & Ireland: TNT Sports holds the rights.
• MENA & SE Asia: Cricbuzz is the streaming partner.
• Sub-Saharan Africa: SuperSport covers the region.

Tactical Analysis: The “New” Pakistan vs The “Established” Lanka

Pakistan’s Bold Experiment

The decision to appoint Salman Ali Agha as captain is significant. It signals Pakistan’s intent to build leadership depth. The spotlight tonight is on the “T10 sensations” and PSL stars who have finally earned their stripes.

• The Player to Watch: Khawaja Nafay. Known for his unorthodox power-hitting, he represents the modern T20 template—fearless and 360-degree.
• The Spin Threat: Abrar Ahmad is the key. On a Dambulla track that usually assists grip, his mystery spin will be Pakistan’s primary weapon against the Lankan middle order.

Sri Lanka’s Home Comforts

Dasun Shanaka leads a side that looks far more settled on paper. With the World Cup coming home, they need to turn potential into dominance.

• The Spin Twins: Wanindu Hasaranga and Maheesh Theekshana are deadly in these conditions. If the pitch is sluggish (which the low score in the 1st T20I suggests), these two could strangle the inexperienced Pakistani lineup.
• The Batting Concern: Chasing has been tricky. The reliance on Pathum Nissanka and Kusal Mendis at the top is heavy. They need the middle order, specifically Charith Asalanka, to fire if they bat first.

Squad Check

Pakistan Squad:

• Captain: Salman Ali Agha
• Batters: Fakhar Zaman, Saim Ayub, Sahibzada Farhan, Khawaja Nafay, Abdul Samad, Usman Khan.
• All-rounders/Spinners: Shadab Khan, Mohammad Nawaz, Abrar Ahmad, Usman Tariq.
• Pacers: Naseem Shah, Mohammad Wasim Jr, Mohammad Salman Mirza, Faheem Ashraf.

Sri Lanka Squad:

• Captain: Dasun Shanaka
• Key Batters: Pathum Nissanka, Kusal Mendis, Charith Asalanka, Kusal Perera.
• Key Bowlers: Wanindu Hasaranga, Maheesh Theekshana, Matheesha Pathirana, Nuwan Thushara.

Pitch Report: Rangiri Dambulla International Stadium

Dambulla is historically not a high-scoring paradise. The pitches here tend to be slightly two-paced.

• Spin is King: As seen in the first match (where 129 was a competitive struggle), the ball grips and stops.
• Dew Factor: Being a night game, dew might play a role in the second innings, making the ball skid on better. However, the outfield can be slow.
• Strategy: The captain winning the toss will likely bowl first. Knowing the target is crucial on a tricky surface, and chasing allows you to pace the innings against the turning ball.

Conclusion

As we wait for the “Match Delayed” status to clear, the stakes remain high. For the young Pakistani players, a series win in Sri Lanka would be a career-defining moment. For Sri Lanka, a loss at home right before hosting the World Cup would be a morale blow.

Will Salman Ali Agha’s young guns outshine Shanaka’s experienced army? The answer lies in the 22 yards at Dambulla.