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The T20I Tri-series 2025 in Pakistan heats up quickly as the hosts, Pakistan, face a tough challenge from Sri Lanka in the third match of the tournament at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium. Following Pakistan’s hard-fought victory over Zimbabwe in the series opener, this contest pits the two strong Asian sides against each other in a pivotal clash that could determine which two teams play in the final. Pakistan will rely on their consistent pace attack and power-hitting, while Sri Lanka, despite being without their regular captain Charith Asalanka, will counter with their exceptional spin arsenal and a balanced batting lineup, making this a true battle of subcontinent strengths.
PAK vs SL, T20I Tri-series 2025: Match Details
| Detail | Information |
| Date and Time | November 22 (Saturday); 6:30 pm IST / 1:00 pm GMT / 6:00 pm LOCAL |
| Venue | Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium, Rawalpindi |
| Head-to-Head Record (T20Is) | Pakistan leads with 14 wins to Sri Lanka’s 10 wins in their 24 T20I encounters, showcasing a competitive rivalry. |
Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium Pitch Report
The pitch at Rawalpindi is expected to be excellent for batting, similar to the surface used in the first match and the recent ODI series, which saw high scores. The surface offers good bounce, but minimal help for spinners, though they can be effective as the ball loses its shine. Pacers, especially those with variation, will be key to managing the scoring rate. Given the strong possibility of dew playing a significant role in the evening, the toss is crucial. The team winning the toss will almost certainly elect to bowl first to take advantage of easier chasing conditions.
Pakistan vs Sri Lanka: Team dynamics and key players
Pakistan: The home side holds the advantage of momentum and home conditions. Key contributions are expected from the top-order, including Fakhar Zaman and Babar Azam, who anchor the batting. The real strength lies in their pace battery: Shaheen Afridi and Naseem Shah will look to make early inroads. All-rounders like Mohammad Nawaz and Faheem Ashraf provide the much-needed depth and flexibility in both departments, which is crucial in a close T20I contest.
Sri Lanka: Led by Dasun Shanaka in the absence of Charith Asalanka, Sri Lanka will rely heavily on their world-class spin attack, particularly Wanindu Hasaranga and Maheesh Theekshana, to choke Pakistan’s scoring in the middle overs. Their batting, anchored by Pathum Nissanka and the experience of Kusal Mendis and Kusal Perera, must set or chase a competitive total. If their spinners are successful in exploiting the surface and their top order fires, they are well-equipped to register a win against their Asian rivals.
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PAK vs SL, T20I Tri-series 2025: Today’s Match Prediction
Case 1:
- Pakistan wins the toss and bowls first
- Sri Lanka powerplay score: 50-60
- Sri Lanka total score: 165-185
Case 2:
- Sri Lanka wins the toss and bats first
- Pakistan powerplay score: 55-65
- Pakistan total score: 175-195
Match result: Pakistan to win the contest
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