RAWALPINDI: Pakistan claimed the tri-nation series title with a commanding 6-wicket victory over Sri Lanka in the final, chasing down a modest target of 115 runs with ease.
Pakistan reached the target in just 18.4 overs, losing 4 wickets along the way.
Babar Azam led the chase with an unbeaten 37 runs off 34 balls, including 1 six and 2 fours. Saim Ayub (36) and Sahibzada Farhan (23) made solid contributions, while Salman Agha’s quickfire 14 helped steer the team closer to victory. Fakhar Zaman and Usman Khan chipped in with 3 runs each, ensuring the target was reached comfortably.
Earlier, Sri Lanka, who batted first after losing the toss, were restricted to just 114 runs in 19.1 overs. Their top scorer was opener Kamindu Mendis, who struck a gritty 59 runs off 44 balls, including 4 sixes and 2 fours. However, the rest of the batting line-up struggled, with Kusal Mendis (14), Nissanka (11), and Ramesh Mendis (8) failing to build significant partnerships. Wanindu Hasaranga (5) and Theekshana (1) were dismissed cheaply as Sri Lanka’s innings faltered.
Pakistan’s bowlers were superb throughout the innings. Shaheen Afridi and Mohammad Nawaz both claimed 3 wickets each, while Saim Ayub and Salman Mirza picked up 1 wicket apiece to dismantle the Sri Lankan batting.
Pakistan’s decision to field first after winning the toss proved to be a masterstroke as their bowlers kept Sri Lanka in check from the start, never allowing them to gain any momentum.
