Rain washes out second Pakistan-Sri Lanka T20I

Persistent rain forces match to be abandoned without a delivery being bowled as Pakistan lead series 1-0

A general view shows the covered pitch after the second Twenty20 international cricket match between Pakistan and Sri Lanka was abandoned due to rain at the Rangiri Dambulla International Stadium in Dambulla on January 9, 2026. Photo: AFP

Rain washed out the second Twenty20 international between Sri Lanka and Pakistan at the Rangiri Dambulla International Stadium on Friday, forcing the match to be abandoned without a single delivery being bowled.

Persistent downpours throughout the evening delayed the toss and left officials with little option but to call off play as conditions failed to improve. The outfield remained waterlogged despite prolonged efforts by ground staff, with covers spread across the entire ground.

The abandoned match was a setback for both sides, with the series serving as part of their preparations for next month’s World Cup, which Sri Lanka will co-host alongside India. Pakistan are scheduled to play all of their tournament matches in Sri Lanka, an arrangement agreed after India declined to travel to Pakistan for the Champions Trophy.

As a result of the washout, Pakistan have ensured they cannot lose the series, going into the third and final match with a 1–0 advantage after their six-wicket win in the opening T20 international at the same venue earlier in the week.

In the previous encounter, Pakistan dismissed Sri Lanka for 128 before reaching the target comfortably with time to spare, taking an early advantage in the series.

The deciding T20 international is due to be played on Sunday, with both sides hoping conditions allow for a complete contest to determine the series outcome.

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