In a series overshadowed by security concerns, Pakistan triumphed over Sri Lanka by six wickets in Rawalpindi, completing a 3-0 sweep in the three-match ODI series. The series had begun under tense circumstances, as several Sri Lankan players had considered leaving Pakistan after a suicide bombing in Islamabad. Nevertheless, thanks to high-level reassurances from the Pakistan Cricket Board, the visiting team stayed on to honour the series.
Sri Lanka’s willingness to continue was met with ruthless precision on the field. Batting first, the visitors struggled to establish momentum, finishing 211 all out in 45.2 overs. No Sri Lankan batsman managed a half-century, with Sadeera Samarawickrama leading the way with 48. Captain Kusal Mendis managed only 34, while Pawan Ratnayake contributed 32. Mohammad Wasim spearheaded Pakistan’s bowling attack with three wickets for 47 runs, supported by Haris Rauf and Faisal.
Pakistan’s reply was clinical. After the early loss of opener Hasibullah Khan, Babar Azam and Fakhar Zaman forged a 74-run partnership, putting Pakistan back on track. Babar scored 34 off 52 balls, while Fakhar added a fluent 55 off 45 deliveries. Mohammad Rizwan’s unbeaten 61, combined with Hussain Talat’s 42*, anchored the innings and saw Pakistan reach the target with 32 balls to spare. A 100-run fifth-wicket stand between Rizwan and Talat sealed the emphatic win.
The match underscored Pakistan’s superiority throughout the series, while also highlighting the courage and professionalism of the Sri Lankan squad in the face of extraordinary circumstances. Mohammad Wasim was named player of the match, and Haris Rauf was the series standout. Sri Lanka will now prepare for the tri-nation tournament beginning on 18 November in Pakistan, facing the hosts and Zimbabwe.
Score Summary:
Sri Lanka: 211 all out, 45.2 overs (Samarawickrama 48, Mendis 34, Ratnayake 32; Wasim 3/47, Haris 2/38, Faisal 2/42)
Pakistan: 215/4, 44.4 overs (Fakhar 55, Rizwan 61*, Talat 42*)
Result: Pakistan won by 6 wickets