Pakistan Beat Sri Lanka by Three Wickets to Win ODI Tri-Series

Lahore: (Sports Reporter) – Pakistan produced a thrilling batting performance to defeat Sri Lanka by three wickets in the final of the ODI tri-nation series at Gaddafi Stadium, successfully chasing a challenging target of 326 runs to lift the trophy.

The hosts reached 331 for seven in 48.3 overs, completing the chase with nine balls to spare and securing the title in front of the home crowd.

Sri Lanka, who were asked to bat first after Pakistan won the toss and elected to field, posted 325 for eight in their allotted 50 overs. Kamindu Mendis led the innings with a superb 131 off 128 balls, while Pavan Rathnayake contributed 77 from 65 deliveries. The pair shared a crucial 146-run partnership that put Sri Lanka in a strong position.

Pakistan fought back in the closing overs, taking six wickets in the final 10 overs to restrict the visitors to 325. Haris Rauf claimed two wickets for 60 runs, while Naseem Shah also picked up two wickets, although he conceded 80 runs.

Pakistan’s chase got off to a difficult start as Maaz Sadaqat and Babar Azam were dismissed early, leaving the hosts struggling at 14 for two. However, Fakhar Zaman played a match-defining innings of 127 off 99 balls, while Saad Baig scored 74 to rebuild the innings through a vital partnership.

After their dismissals, Arafat Minhas kept Pakistan in the hunt with an important 61-run contribution. His efforts helped bring the hosts closer to victory before Shaheen Shah Afridi sealed the win with a six. Fakhar Zaman was named Player of the Match for his outstanding century.

The victory secured Pakistan’s first ODI tri-series title on home soil, capping a memorable final with a successful run chase against Sri Lanka.