LAHORE(National times)- Pakistan are set to begin their 2026 cricketing year with a decisive three-match T20I series in Sri Lanka, after the Pakistan Cricket Board released the complete tour schedule on Tuesday. The fixtures come at a crucial moment for the national side as preparations intensify for the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup, beginning just weeks later. The board confirmed that all matches will take place at the Rangiri Dambulla International Cricket Stadium, a venue known for its lively conditions and evening atmospherics. The first T20I will be held on 7 January, followed by the second on 9 January and the final match on 11 January.
Countdown to the World Cup
Pakistan have been placed in Group A for the 2026 T20 World Cup, with all group matches scheduled in Colombo. The global event will run from 7 February to 8 March, jointly hosted by India and Sri Lanka. With the tournament approaching rapidly, the Dambulla series is expected to offer vital exposure to Sri Lankan conditions before the squad move to the capital for World Cup duties. The tour announcement arrives just as Pakistan conclude a packed but successful 2025 home season. The national team collected back-to-back series wins, enhancing confidence ahead of next year’s challenges. In October, Pakistan hosted South Africa for both T20I and ODI series, winning each format 2-1. Momentum continued into the home ODI series against Sri Lanka, where Pakistan secured a clean sweep. Their schedule then shifted to the T20I tri-series involving Sri Lanka and Zimbabwe, which wrapped up on Saturday with Pakistan lifting the title. During this stretch, the men’s side suffered only three defeats across formats, closing the season with four series victories and one of their most consistent runs in recent years.
Salman Ali Agha leads Pakistan to record 21 T20 wins in a year
Players will now take a month-long break before assembling for the Sri Lanka tour. After the Dambulla challenge, Pakistan are expected to host Australia for a T20I series that will lead directly into the 20-over World Cup, ensuring the squad remain in competitive rhythm.
