Colombo was treated to a masterclass in high-pressure cricket on Monday, January 12, 2026, as Wanindu Hasaranga once again proved why he’s one of the most feared spinners in the T20 format. In a rain-shortened, nerve-shredding third T20I, Hasaranga’s brilliance with the ball, coupled with a fiery batting cameo from Dasun Shanaka, powered Sri Lanka to a 14-run victory over Pakistan, leveling the series at 1-1 .
This wasn’t just another win; it was a statement of intent from a Sri Lankan side determined to fight back after an opening loss. The match had everything: drama from the skies, explosive hitting, and a bowling performance that will be talked about for a long time.
Table of Contents
- The Match That Had It All: A Rain-Soaked Thriller
- Shanaka’s Fireworks Set the Stage
- Wanindu Hasaranga’s Historic and Decisive Spell
- Why This Win Matters for Sri Lanka
- Pakistan Fumbles Under Pressure
- Conclusion: A Series Poised on a Knife-Edge
- Sources
The Match That Had It All: A Rain-Soaked Thriller
The third T20I was always going to be pivotal. With Pakistan having taken the first match, Sri Lanka needed a win to stay alive in the series. Mother Nature added her own twist, with rain forcing a revision of the match to 18 overs per side .
In this shortened format, every ball became exponentially more valuable. The pressure was immense, and the team that could handle it best would walk away with the victory. As it turned out, that team was Sri Lanka, thanks to two key performances at critical junctures.
Shanaka’s Fireworks Set the Stage
After being put in to bat, Sri Lanka found themselves in a tricky spot at 94/5 in the 14th over. The innings was crying out for someone to take charge and clear the ropes. Enter captain Dasun Shanaka.
In a breathtaking display of power-hitting, Shanaka smashed an unbeaten 46 off just 21 deliveries. His assault included three massive sixes and four boundaries, completely changing the momentum of the innings. He added a crucial 51 runs for the sixth wicket with Dunith Wellalage (23 off 14), propelling Sri Lanka to a highly competitive total of 157/6 in their 18 overs .
That final flourish by Shanaka gave the Sri Lankan bowlers something tangible to defend, especially on a pitch that was offering some assistance to the spinners.
Wanindu Hasaranga’s Historic and Decisive Spell
If Shanaka provided the platform, Wanindu Hasaranga built the fortress and locked the gates. His performance with the ball was nothing short of spectacular. On a night where he reached the elite milestone of his 150th T20 International wicket, he delivered a spell that was both historic and match-winning .
Hasaranga’s figures of 4/24 in his 4 overs were a masterclass in controlling the middle overs. He broke a dangerous-looking 50-run partnership between Saim Ayub and Iftikhar Ahmed just when Pakistan seemed to be cruising. His variations, impeccable line, and ability to bowl under immense pressure were on full display.
His dismissal of Mohammad Rizwan, a key Pakistani batter, was a major turning point. By consistently attacking the stumps and using his googly to perfection, he strangled the Pakistani chase, leaving them well short of the revised target.
Why This Win Matters for Sri Lanka
This victory is about more than just leveling the series. For a young Sri Lankan side rebuilding its identity, a win against a top-tier team like Pakistan in such a high-stakes game is a massive confidence booster. It shows they can execute their plans under pressure and have match-winners in their ranks.
Hasaranga’s form is particularly crucial. As one of the world’s premier T20 spinners, his success is often directly linked to Sri Lanka’s fortunes. His achievement of 150 T20I wickets—a feat only a handful of players have accomplished—cements his legacy and provides a focal point for the team’s strategy. [INTERNAL_LINK:sri-lanka-cricket-rebuilding-phase] efforts are clearly bearing fruit.
Pakistan Fumbles Under Pressure
For Pakistan, this loss is a significant setback. After winning the first game, they were in a prime position to seal the series. However, their middle order failed to capitalize on a solid start. Once the partnership between Ayub and Iftikhar was broken by Hasaranga, their innings collapsed like a house of cards.
Their inability to handle the pressure of a shortened chase, especially against quality spin, is a concern they will need to address before the final, decisive match. Their bowling attack, while decent, couldn’t contain Shanaka’s late onslaught, which ultimately proved to be the difference.
Conclusion: A Series Poised on a Knife-Edge
Thanks to Wanindu Hasaranga’s historic heroics and Dasun Shanaka’s explosive batting, the Sri Lanka vs Pakistan T20 series is now perfectly poised at 1-1. The stage is set for a grand finale that promises to be an epic battle.
Hasaranga has shown he is the man for the big occasion, and if Sri Lanka can replicate this level of performance, they have a real shot at clinching the series. For Pakistan, it’s a must-win situation, and they’ll need their stars to step up in a major way. One thing is certain: cricket fans are in for a treat.
Sources
- Times of India: Hasaranga leads the fightback as Sri Lanka edge Pakistan to level series 1-1
- ESPNcricinfo: Sri Lanka vs Pakistan, 3rd T20I Live Scorecard [[7], [14]]
- ICC Official Website: ICC Men’s T20I Player Rankings (for context on Hasaranga’s standing)