In an exciting opening clash of the Sri Lanka–Pakistan ODI series, the hosts Pakistan claimed a narrow 6-run victory over Sri Lanka in Rawalpindi yesterday.
Winning the toss, Pakistan opted to bat first and set a challenging target of 299 runs for Sri Lanka.
Salman Ali Agha played a brilliant unbeaten knock of 105 off 87 balls, while Hussain Talat added 62 runs to help Pakistan post a strong total.
For Sri Lanka, Wanindu Hasaranga impressed with the ball, taking 3 wickets, while Maheesh Theekshana and Asitha Fernando picked up one wicket each.
In reply, Sri Lanka fought hard but fell just short, managing 293 runs for 9 wickets in their 50 overs.
Wanindu Hasaranga top-scored with 59, while Sadeera Samarawickrama (39) and Kamil Mishara (38) provided solid support.
Haris Rauf led Pakistan’s bowling attack with 4 wickets, while Faheem Ashraf and Naseem Shah claimed two wickets each.
Salman Ali Agha was named the Player of the Match for his outstanding all-round performance.
With this win, Pakistan lead the three-match ODI series 1–0.
