Pakistan Begin Tri-Series with 37-Run Victory over Sri Lanka

Hosts Pakistan began their tri-nation series campaign with a 37-run victory over Sri Lanka in the opening match in Rawalpindi. Chasing a target of 306, Sri Lanka were bowled out for 268 in 48.1 overs.

Pavan Rathnayake and Janith Liyanage led Sri Lanka’s fight with the bat. Rathnayake scored 79 off 74 balls, while Liyanage made 60 from the same number of deliveries.

Kamindu Mendis added 44 runs and Dasun Shanaka contributed 28. However, Avishka Fernando, who scored five, and Sahan Arachchige, who made three, fell cheaply, putting Sri Lanka under pressure. The team eventually fell 37 runs short of the target.

Shaheen Shah Afridi was Pakistan’s leading wicket-taker with three dismissals. Naseem Shah, Haris Rauf and Faheem Ashraf claimed two wickets apiece.

Earlier, Pakistan were also bowled out for 305 after being asked to bat following the toss. Salman Ali Agha produced an outstanding innings, scoring 107 off 90 balls. Babar Azam contributed 45 runs, while Saad Baig added 39.

Eshan Malinga was Sri Lanka’s most successful bowler, taking four wickets. Pakistan’s total proved sufficient as Sri Lanka managed only 268, handing the hosts a 37-run victory in the series opener.