Pakistan defeated Sri Lanka by 6 runs in a thrilling finish in the Pakistan vs Sri Lanka 1st ODI at Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium. With this win, Pakistan took a 1–0 lead in the ODI series after a closely contested match that went down to the final overs.
Pakistan Batting Sets Up Competitive Total
To begin with, Pakistan posted a strong total of 299 for 5 after batting first. Agha Salman played a key role with a brilliant unbeaten century, scoring 105 off 113 balls. Moreover, his innings provided stability in the middle overs and allowed Pakistan to build a solid foundation.
In addition, Tayyab Tahir contributed 62 runs, while Mohammad Nawaz added a quick unbeaten 36 at the end. As a result, Pakistan reached a highly competitive total that put pressure on Sri Lanka early in the chase.
Meanwhile, Wanindu Hasaranga stood out for Sri Lanka with the ball, taking 3 wickets for 54 runs using smart variations and control.
Sri Lanka Fight Back in the Chase
In response, Sri Lanka started their chase with confidence. Openers Sadeera Samarawickrama and Shevon Daniel Mishara scored 39 and 38 runs respectively. Furthermore, they built a steady partnership that kept Sri Lanka in the contest during the early overs.
However, Pakistan struck at regular intervals, which prevented Sri Lanka from building long-lasting partnerships. As a result, the required run rate gradually increased, putting pressure on the middle order.
Haris Rauf Turns the Match Around
On the other hand, Haris Rauf delivered a match-winning spell in the death overs. He took 4 wickets for 61 runs and used pace and yorkers effectively to break Sri Lanka’s momentum.
Moreover, his timely breakthroughs ensured Sri Lanka could not finish the chase despite being in a strong position at different stages of the innings.
Sri Lanka Fall Short in Final Overs
Ultimately, Sri Lanka were bowled out for 293, falling just 6 runs short of the target. Although Wanindu Hasaranga contributed a fighting 59-run innings, he lacked support from the other end.
In addition, Pakistan’s fielding unit played a crucial role by saving runs and maintaining pressure throughout the innings.
Match Summary
Pakistan: 299/5 (Agha Salman 105*, Tayyab Tahir 62, Mohammad Nawaz 36*)
Sri Lanka: 293/9 (Hasaranga 59, Samarawickrama 39, Mishara 38)
Result: Pakistan won by 6 runs
Venue: Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium