Rawalpindi: Sri Lanka Set 289-Run Target in the 50 overs, giving Pakistan a 289-run target in the ongoing ODI of the series. The visitors built their innings through steady partnerships and timely acceleration in the middle overs.
Key Sri Lankan Performances
Janith Liyanage led the scoring with a comfortable 54, while Kamindu Mendis added 44 runs to strengthen the top order. Sadeera Samarawickrama contributed 42 and Charith Asalanka chipped in with only six runs, ensuring Sri Lanka maintained a competitive run rate throughout the innings.
Pakistan Bowlers Share Wickets
Pakistan’s bowlers struck regularly, with Abrar Ahmed and Haris Rauf taking three wickets each. Their breakthroughs kept Sri Lanka from pushing beyond the 300-run mark, despite repeated attempts to accelerate in the death overs.
Shaheen Afridi Unwell
Meanwhile, Pakistan entered the match without fast bowler Shaheen Afridi, who missed the fixture due to a precautionary rest following a minor fitness concern. His absence placed additional responsibility on the rest of the pace attack, particularly in the powerplay and at the death.
Chase Ahead
As Pakistan prepare to respond, the chase will require disciplined shot selection and strong middle-order partnerships. Sri Lanka, on the other hand, will look to exploit early pressure with their new-ball attack as the match moves into its decisive phase.
