Pakistan completed a dominant 3-0 ODI series sweep over Sri Lanka with a six-wicket victory in the third and final match at Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium on Sunday.
The win was powered by a brilliant bowling performance from pacers Haris Rauf and Mohammad Wasim Jr., who claimed three wickets each, and left-arm wrist spinner Faisal Akram, who took two, keeping the Sri Lankan innings under control.
Sri Lanka posted 211 runs, with openers Patthum Nissanka and Kamil Mishara giving a brisk start before Haris removed Nissanka, while Wasim accounted for Mishara. Kusal Mendis tried to anchor the innings but fell to Wasim, and a series of tight deliveries from Faisal and Pakistan’s pace attack saw wickets tumble at regular intervals.
The middle and lower order failed to build momentum, as Samarawickrama, Kamindu Mendis, Janith Liyanage, and Maheesh Theekshana all fell cheaply. Sri Lanka’s final total reflected the pressure applied by Pakistan’s disciplined attack.
Chasing 212, Pakistan got off to a shaky start as opener Haseebullah was dismissed early. Fakhar Zaman steadied the innings with a quickfire 55 off 45 balls, forming a strong partnership with Babar Azam.
However, both fell before completing their half-centuries, leaving Pakistan at a critical juncture. Mohammad Rizwan anchored the chase with an unbeaten 61 off 92 balls, supported by Hussain Talat’s 42, guiding the hosts to victory with 32 balls to spare.
The win marked Pakistan’s second successive ODI series triumph following their recent 2-1 victory over South Africa. The team’s balanced performance, combining incisive bowling and measured batting, highlighted their depth and consistency.
Attention now shifts to the upcoming T20I tri-series, featuring Pakistan, Sri Lanka, and Zimbabwe. Analysts praised the bowling trio’s ability to contain the opposition and Rizwan and Fakhar’s half-centuries for stabilizing the chase.
Pakistan’s seamless execution of strategies in both departments underscores their preparedness for the shorter format and further cements their dominance in home conditions. The comprehensive 3-0 whitewash over Sri Lanka adds momentum and confidence for the team heading into the next stage of their international fixtures.
