RAWALPINDI: Pakistan defeated Sri Lanka by eight wickets in the second match of the three-match ODI series, taking a dominant 2-0 lead.
With this, Babar Azam equaled the legendary Saeed Anwar’s record for most centuries in One Day International (ODI) cricket for Pakistan. In the second ODI against Sri Lanka at Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium, Babar scored his 20th ODI century, matching the record previously held by Anwar.
Chasing a target of 289, Pakistan achieved the required runs in 49 overs, losing only two wickets.
Babar Azam played a match-winning knock of 102 runs, while Mohammad Rizwan supported with a solid 51 not out. The victory marked a comprehensive performance from Pakistan, with both bat and ball.
The match, held at Rawalpindi, saw Sri Lanka win the toss and choose to bat first. Their top order faltered early, losing the first four wickets for just 98 runs. However, a 61-run partnership between Charith Asalanka and Dinesh Chandimal provided some stability. Asalanka scored 42 runs before being dismissed, while Chandimal added a valuable 54 runs to the score.
Sri Lanka’s middle order also contributed, with a 73-run stand between Jayasuriya and Mendis, but Mendis (44) was dismissed soon after. Wanindu Hasaranga, with a quickfire 37 not out, helped push Sri Lanka’s total to 288/8 by the end of their 50 overs.
Pakistan’s bowlers were in control throughout the innings, with Abrar Ahmed and Haris Rauf each claiming three wickets. Their disciplined bowling ensured Sri Lanka was limited to a competitive, but achievable total.
In response, Pakistan’s openers Fakhar Zaman and Saim Ayub got off to a solid start, putting on 77 runs for the first wicket. Ayub made a valuable 33 runs before being dismissed. Zaman continued his good form, scoring 78 runs before returning to the pavilion. With the target well within reach, Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan anchored the chase, calmly guiding Pakistan to victory.
In a notable development, with Shaheen Shah Afridi missing from the lineup, Salman Ali took over as captain for the match.
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