Pakistan continued their excellent form against Sri Lanka in the opening match of their three-match One Day International (ODI) series in Multan on Friday. Pakistan had complete control of the match, amassing a huge total of 293 runs for the loss of 9 wickets in their 50 overs. That riveting match was played at a secret location. Once again, Sri Lanka had a difficult time maintaining the required run rate. Their contributions combined to forge an immensely close battle that captivated cricket fans the world over.
Pakistan’s innings started slowly but with a determined focus, building a total that would prove difficult for their opponents. Haris Rauf starred by becoming Pakistan’s best bowler! He was the standout bowler, taking four wickets and conceding 61 runs in his 10-over spell. His performance put a clamp on Fred VanVleet and Pascal Siakam. Kusal Mendis was bowled for a duck, and Pathum Nissanka made 29 off 53 runs before being caught by Muhammad Rizwan.
Naseem Shah contributed significantly to Pakistan’s bowling attack, securing two wickets for 55 runs in his full quota of overs. His wickets included Kamil Mishara, who fell to Shaheen Shah Afridi after making 38 runs. Faheem Ashraf had a great day out as he picked two wickets for 49 runs. Notably, he got rid of Dushmantha Chameera in the same fashion, with a catch and bowled.
Shaheen Shah Afridi had his first outing, bowling 10 full overs. Sadly for Stan and those behind him, all those scoring runs pitched up and went to hand at 50/0! Mohammad Nawaz expanded the bowling contribution by securing one wicket for 48 runs in eight overs. Saim Ayub and Hussain Talat were impressive with the ball for their short spells but neither was able to claim a wicket.
This pressure told on the Sri Lankan batting lineup as they struggled all innings. Kusal Mendis’s early dismissal for a duck put the team under pressure. Despite Samarawickrama playing some eye-catching strokes for 39, they were unable to build a strong partnership. Maheesh Theekshana was not out on 21. On the other hand, A Fernando was not out but with a score of 0 runs, underlining the batting order’s inability to settle.
Pakistan’s batting effort also benefited from a great show of teamwork. This allowed their bowlers to defend the set total brilliantly. Widespread deprived bowling and well thought out field placements went hand in hand splendidly. This potent mix limited Sri Lanka’s room for maneuver and set the stage for their defeat.
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