Pakistan started the second ODI against Sri Lanka with an explosive intent at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium on 14 November 2025. After winning the toss, Pakistan chose to field first, but the Sri Lankan innings gave them a challenging target of 289 runs. Wanindu Hasaranga’s brisk 37 off 26 balls* and Janith Liyanage’s 54 laid the foundation for a competitive total, although Pakistan’s bowlers, particularly Abrar Ahmed and Haris Rauf, struck crucial blows with 3 wickets each.
Sri Lanka’s innings faced a few setbacks, losing wickets at key intervals. Kusal Mendis, Janith Liyanage, and Kamindu Mendis were dismissed at pivotal moments, preventing the visitors from reaching 300. However, the late surge by Hasaranga stabilized the innings and ensured a challenging target for Pakistan.
Chasing 289, Pakistan’s openers Saim Ayub and Fakhar Zaman tore through the Sri Lankan bowling attack, racing to 49/0 in just 5 overs. Ayub, in particular, played aggressively with 21 runs off 14 balls, while Zaman complemented with a quick 16 off 17 balls. Their blistering start relieved pressure from Babar Azam, who has been struggling for form this series.
The pitch at Rawalpindi, less grassy than before but rolled heavily, offered ideal batting conditions initially but spinners could exploit as the ball aged. Pakistan looks confident with early momentum and seems poised to chase the target efficiently if they continue this aggressive approach.
The ODI series between Pakistan and Sri Lanka acts as a precursor to the upcoming tri-series involving Zimbabwe, starting 17 November. For fans, this match was a perfect example of Pakistan’s depth in batting and the ability to start aggressively under pressure. Sri Lanka, despite a competitive total, must find early breakthroughs to disrupt the chase.
Overall, Pakistan’s explosive opening performance in just 5 overs has put them firmly in control, and cricket enthusiasts are eagerly anticipating whether they can maintain the momentum to secure another thrilling victory in Rawalpindi.