Pakistan defeated Sri Lanka by three wickets to win the tri-nation ODI series final at Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore on Saturday, completing a thrilling chase of 326 runs in the 49th over. Chasing a challenging target of 326, Pakistan reached the finish line with three wickets in hand, thanks to outstanding batting performances from Fakhar Zaman, Saad Baig and Arafat Minhas.
Fakhar Zaman led the charge with a brilliant 127 off 99 balls, smashing 11 fours and six sixes. The century was the 12th of his ODI career and proved crucial in Pakistan’s successful run chase.
Wicketkeeper-batter Saad Baig also played a vital role, scoring 74 runs, while all-rounder Arafat Minhas provided late momentum with an aggressive 61 off just 31 balls. Hassan Nawaz contributed 37 runs, while former captain Babar Azam was dismissed for a duck.
For Sri Lanka, Madushanka picked up three wickets, while Fernando claimed two. Maheesh Theekshana and Wellalage took one wicket each. Earlier, Sri Lanka posted 325 for eight in their allotted 50 overs after Pakistan elected to bowl first. Kamindu Mendis top-scored with a magnificent 131, while Pavan Rathnayake contributed 77 runs. For Pakistan, Haris Rauf, Salman Ali Agha, Naseem Shah and Shaheen Shah Afridi claimed two wickets apiece.
Speaking at the toss, Sri Lanka captain Kusal Mendis expressed confidence in his team’s preparations, saying the players had performed well throughout the tournament and understood their responsibilities. He also confirmed one change to the playing XI.
Pakistan captain Shaheen Shah Afridi said he opted to bowl first because of the expected moisture during the second innings. He expressed hope that his bowlers would make an early impact and provide the team with a strong start. Shaheen also confirmed one change to Pakistan’s lineup, with Faheem Ashraf replacing the unwell Shadab Khan.
