Rawalpindi: After a long wait Babar Azam was able to score his 20th ODI hundered. Pakistan secured a convincing win in the second ODI against Sri Lanka at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium on Friday, successfully chasing the 289-run target with a steady, controlled batting display. The hosts dominated with the bat and ball, taking a 2–0 lead in the series.
Pakistan’s Top Order Lead the Chase
Pakistan’s top order handled the chase with confidence. Fakhar Zaman anchored the innings with 78, while Saim Ayub added 33 before Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan steadied the pursuit with a composed partnership. scoring 102 and 51 runs respectively. Their controlled approach ensured Pakistan stayed ahead of the required rate throughout the chase.
Sri Lanka Build Competitive Total
Earlier in the day, Sri Lanka posted 288 for eight in their 50 overs, building their innings through consistent partnerships. Janith Liyanage top-scored with a composed 54, while Kamindu Mendis added 44 to stabilise the top order. Sadeera Samarawickrama contributed 42, and Charith Asalanka managed only six runs, but the visitors kept the scoreboard moving through timely acceleration in the middle overs.
Sri Lankan Bowlers Struggle for Breakthroughs
Sri Lanka managed only two wickets, with Janith Liyanage and Charith Asalanka taking one each. Despite rotating their bowlers and adjusting field placements, the visitors failed to apply sustained pressure during Pakistan’s chase.
Pakistan Bowlers Strike Regularly
Pakistan’s attack responded with discipline. Abrar Ahmed and Haris Rauf took three wickets each, breaking key partnerships and preventing Sri Lanka from reaching the 300-run mark. Their wickets in the later stages restricted the visitors’ attempts to surge in the final overs.
Shaheen Afridi Unwell
Meanwhile, Pakistan played without left-arm pacer Shaheen Afridi, who missed the match as a precaution after a minor fitness concern. His absence increased the workload on the rest of the pace unit, particularly during the powerplay and at the death, but the attack adapted effectively.
Read more: Sri Lanka Set 289-Run Target as Pakistan Misses Shaheen Afridi
