Pakistan Edge Sri Lanka by 6 Runs in Rawalpindi Thriller

Pakistan Edge Sri Lanka by Six Runs in Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium

Pakistan held their nerve to beat Sri Lanka by six runs in a tense finish at Rawalpindi. The victory gave them a 1–0 lead in the three-match ODI series.

Batting first, Pakistan posted 299 for 5. Agha Salman anchored the innings superbly with an unbeaten 105 off 113 balls.

Talat added a steady 62, while Mohammad Nawaz struck a brisk 36 not out at the end.

Wanindu Hasaranga was Sri Lanka’s best bowler, taking 3 for 54 with clever variations.

Sri Lanka began their chase with a clear sense of purpose, showing intent to chase down the target set by Pakistan. Right from the outset, the opening pair of Sadeera Samarawickrama and Shevon Daniel Mishara tried to establish a solid foundation for their side. Samarawickrama, known for his calm temperament and ability to rotate the strike, contributed a steady 39 runs, carefully negotiating the early bowlers and looking to keep the scoreboard ticking. Alongside him, Shevon Daniel Mishara provided an equally determined effort, scoring 38 runs, often finding gaps in the field and pushing the score along whenever there was an opportunity. Together, they displayed resilience and a strategic approach to building an innings under pressure.

However, despite these promising contributions, Sri Lanka’s progress was hampered by the timely fall of wickets at crucial moments. Every time the pair seemed to settle and gain momentum, Pakistan struck back with incisive bowling that prevented the Sri Lankan side from consolidating their position. The loss of wickets disrupted partnerships and put Sri Lanka on the back foot, forcing the middle order to play catch-up. Each dismissal was a psychological blow, and it increased the pressure on the remaining batsmen to keep the chase alive.

Amid these challenges, Wanindu Hasaranga emerged as the hero with the bat for Sri Lanka. Coming in at a crucial juncture, Hasaranga displayed exceptional composure and a keen sense of timing. His innings of 59 runs was marked by calculated aggression and smart shot selection, allowing Sri Lanka to claw their way back into the contest. Hasaranga’s performance was particularly notable because he single-handedly revived Sri Lanka’s hopes at a moment when the game seemed to be slipping away.

Yet, despite Hasaranga’s heroics, Pakistan had their own match-winner in the form of Haris Rauf. The fast bowler produced a masterclass in death bowling, combining sheer pace with pinpoint accuracy to devastating effect. Rauf’s spell of 4 wickets for 61 runs ultimately proved decisive. He consistently challenged the batsmen with short-pitched deliveries and well-directed yorkers, leaving little room for error. His ability to maintain pressure in the closing overs meant that Sri Lanka’s batsmen had to take risks, which often resulted in further dismissals. The timing of Rauf’s wickets was crucial; by breaking partnerships and hitting key batsmen, he effectively stalled any momentum Sri Lanka had built, turning the game firmly in Pakistan’s favor.

As the match drew to a close, Pakistan’s bowlers executed their plans flawlessly, and Rauf’s contributions were particularly instrumental in sealing the victory. The combination of strategic bowling, disciplined fielding, and timely breakthroughs ensured that Pakistan maintained control throughout the crucial phases of the game. Meanwhile, Sri Lanka’s fightback, led by Hasaranga, remained valiant but ultimately fell short. The match highlighted the fine margins in cricket, where individual brilliance can temporarily shift momentum, but consistent execution across all facets of the game is essential to secure a win.

In the end, the encounter served as a reminder of the unpredictability and excitement of cricket. While Sri Lanka showed flashes of resilience and individual brilliance, Pakistan’s overall execution, led by Haris Rauf’s lethal spell, proved decisive. Fans witnessed a thrilling contest where strategy, skill, and nerves all played a part, culminating in a memorable victory for Pakistan and valuable lessons for Sri Lanka as they continue their campaign.

Despite Hasaranga’s all-round heroics, Sri Lanka fell just short at 293 for 9. Pakistan’s bowlers held their lines under pressure, ensuring a thrilling finish for the home fans.

1st ODI (D/N), Rawalpindi, November 11, 2025 – Sri Lanka tour of Pakistan

Pakistan won by 6 runs