Pakistan were firmly in control of the opening T20I against Sri Lanka at Dambulla on Wednesday, needing 104 runs from 107 balls with all ten wickets in hand after a disciplined bowling display restricted the hosts to 128. Chasing a modest target of 129, Pakistan raced to 25 without loss in just 2.1 overs, leaving the visitors well ahead of the required rate. With a run rate advantage and wickets in hand, Pakistan’s win probability crossed 90 percent at the early stage of the chase. Earlier, Sri Lanka were bowled out for 128 in 19.2 overs after struggling to build momentum. Janith Liyanage top-scored with 40 off 31 balls, while Charith Asalanka (18) and Wanindu Hasaranga (18) provided brief resistance in the middle order. Pakistan’s bowlers shared the spoils. Salman Mirza led the attack with three wickets for 18 runs in his four overs, while Abrar Ahmed also claimed three for 25. Mohammad Wasim picked up two wickets for just seven runs, applying early pressure that dented Sri Lanka’s top order. Sri Lanka lost wickets at regular intervals and never fully recovered after slipping to 38 for four inside seven overs. Despite a late push, the hosts fell short of a competitive total on a surface offering some assistance to the bowlers. Pakistan now look set to take a 1-0 lead in the three-match T20I series, barring an unlikely turnaround in the second innings.