ISLAMABAD: Pakistan defeated Sri Lanka by mere six runs in the one One-Day International in Rawalpindi on Tuesday night. Pakistan were declared winners in a nail-biting finish against Sri Lanka, taking a 1-0 lead in the three-match ODI series at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium.
Pakistan’s Innings Anchored by Salman Ali Agha
After electing to bat first, Pakistan’s total of 299 for 5 in 50 overs was built around an unbeaten 105 by Salman Ali Agha. His innings, which included nine boundaries, proved instrumental in guiding Pakistan to a competitive total. Agha was well-supported by Hussain Talat, who struck 62 off 63 balls during a vital 138-run partnership.
Opener Fakhar Zaman added 32 runs, while captain Babar Azam contributed 29 before being dismissed by Wanindu Hasaranga. Mohammad Nawaz boosted the total in the final overs with a quick-fire 36 not out off 23 balls. For Sri Lanka, Hasaranga took three wickets, while Asitha Fernando and Maheesh Theekshana claimed one each.
Sri Lanka Fall Short Despite Late Resistance
While chasing 300, Sri Lanka began confidently as Pathum Nissanka and debutant Kamil Mishara shared an 85-run opening stand. However, the momentum was lost following a double strike by Haris Rauf, which triggered a middle-order collapse. Charith Asalanka scored 32, while Hasaranga’s determined 59 kept Sri Lanka in contention until the final overs. Ultimately, they finished on 293 for 9.
Haris Rauf led Pakistan’s bowling attack with 4 for 61, while Faheem Ashraf and Naseem Shah picked two wickets each. Mohammad Nawaz took one.
Captains’ Reactions and Series Outlook
Captain Shahid Afridi stated that the dew factor influenced the decision to bat first, noting that Rawalpindi generally produces high totals. Sri Lanka’s skipper Charith Asalanka appreciated the balanced pitch and expressed optimism for the remaining matches.
Pakistan and Sri Lanka will play the three-match ODI series until November 15 in Rawalpindi. It will be followed by the Tri-Nation Series involving Pakistan, Sri Lanka, and Zimbabwe from 17th of Nov to 29.
