Pakistan kicked off their three-match T20I series against Sri Lanka with a commanding six-wicket victory at the Rangiri Dambulla International Stadium. A masterclass in disciplined bowling followed by a composed half-century from opener Sahibzada Farhan ensured the visitors took a 1-0 lead in the series.
Abrar and Mirza Dismantle Sri Lanka’s Lineup
After winning the toss and opting to bowl, Pakistan’s bowlers dominated from the start. Sri Lanka struggled to find any rhythm, losing wickets at regular intervals:
- The Early Strike: Salman Mirza removed Kamil Mishara for a duck in the third over.
- Spin Trap: Returning to the side, Shadab Khan dismissed Kusal Mendis (14) and Dhananjaya de Silva (10) in a single over.
- Middle Order Collapse: Abrar Ahmed utilized his variations to claim 3 for 25, including the crucial wicket of Charith Asalanka.
The only significant resistance came from Janith Liyanage, who scored a gritty 40 off 31 balls. Sri Lanka was eventually bundled out for a modest 128 in 19.2 overs.
Pakistan’s Chase: Farhan and Ayub Set the Tone
Pakistan’s openers provided a blistering start to the chase, putting on 55 runs in the PowerPlay. Sahibzada Farhan was particularly aggressive, smashing two massive sixes off Nuwan Thushara.
Despite a brief wobble in the middle overs where Pakistan lost Salman Agha (16), Fakhar Zaman (10), and Saim Ayub (24), the required rate remained under control. Sahibzada Farhan anchored the innings with a defining 51 off 33 balls, earning him the Player of the Match honors.
The Finish
Shadab Khan and Usman Khan remained calm to navigate the final runs, reaching the target of 129 in the 17th over with 20 balls to spare.
Brief Scores:
- Sri Lanka: 128 all out in 19.2 overs (Janith Liyanage 40; Abrar Ahmed 3/25, Salman Mirza 3/28).
- Pakistan: 129/4 in 16.4 overs (Sahibzada Farhan 51, Saim Ayub 24; Maheesh Theekshana 1/19).
- Result: Pakistan won by 6 wickets.