DAMBULLA, Sri Lanka: The toss for the third and final T20 international between Pakistan and Sri Lanka was delayed on Sunday due to rain at the Rangiri Dambulla International Stadium.
Persistent rain and a heavy thunderstorm left the ground fully covered, with both teams waiting in the dressing rooms. Weather forecasts had earlier predicted rainfall in the evening.
Pakistan currently lead the three-match series 1-0. They won the opening T20I with a dominant all-round display, while the second match was washed out without a ball being bowled due to rain.
Weather forecasts
According to weather forecasts, conditions in Dambulla remained uncertain throughout the day. The temperature was around 21 degrees Celsius, with cloud cover close to 66 per cent.
Although the chance of rain was initially low, forecasts indicated an increased probability of showers as the evening progressed.
The T20I series is being played as part of preparations for the ICC T20 World Cup, scheduled to begin on 7 February in Sri Lanka and India.
Rain disruptions have limited both sides’ opportunities to test combinations and assess bench strength ahead of the tournament.
Teams and record
Pakistan and Sri Lanka have faced each other 29 times in T20 internationals.
Pakistan lead the head-to-head record with 17 wins, while Sri Lanka have won 11 matches. One match ended with no result.
Pakistan entered the series on the back of a T20I tri-series title, which included a final victory over Sri Lanka.
The hosts were aiming to assert dominance in home conditions ahead of the World Cup.
Pakistan squad
Salman Ali Agha (captain), Abdul Samad, Abrar Ahmed, Faheem Ashraf, Fakhar Zaman, Khawaja Nafay (wicketkeeper), Mohammad Nawaz, Mohammad Salman Mirza, Mohammad Wasim Jr, Naseem Shah, Sahibzada Farhan (wicketkeeper), Saim Ayub, Shadab Khan, Usman Khan (wicketkeeper) and Usman Tariq.
Sri Lanka squad
Dasun Shanaka (captain), Pathum Nissanka, Kamil Mishara, Kusal Mendis, Kusal Perera, Dhananjaya de Silva, Charith Asalanka, Janith Liyanage, Kamindu Mendis, Wanindu Hasaranga, Dunith Wellalage, Maheesh Theekshana, Dushan Hemantha, Traveen Mathew, Dushmantha Chameera, Matheesha Pathirana, Nuwan Thushara and Eshan Malinga.
