Pakistan’s victory over Sri Lanka in the third and final One Day International (ODI) series decider. They won the series in style, scoring a world record 289 runs for the loss of only 2 wickets in 48.2 overs! Babar Azam was the leader of the attack with a staggering innings, scoring 102 with great efficiency. He finished not out, carrying his team to an overwhelming victory.
Fakhar Zaman offered good support at the top of the order as he scored a fluent 78 runs before perishing. Liyanage caught him down the leg side, and Chameera bowled him. Chameera was arguably the player of the match, finishing with remarkable bowling figures of 4/33 in 10 overs. Saim Ayub was in sublime touch, scoring 33 runs before getting out on the bowling of Chameera too.
At that point in the match, Pakistan’s position was already looking solid, and Muhammad Rizwan’s 51 runs were crucial in lengthening their scoreboard dominance. Pakistan’s unique batting display balanced aggression with pragmatic strokes. This spectacular spell of bowling made a significant contribution to their overall target placed in front of Sri Lanka.
Sri Lanka’s bowlers struggled at every stage of the innings. Dushmantha Chameera was the main man and he certainly made a huge impact. He took 2 wickets in his full 10 overs, taking only 57 runs from the batters. On the other hand, Wanindu Hasaranga stepped up to the plate with a disciplined performance, serving up 10 overs and conceding just 35 runs. A Fernando and Madushan played their parts chipping in with 8.2 and 8 overs respectively but had no answers to the Pakistani batsmen.
On the pitch, Charith Asalanka starred, bowling 6 overs and only allowing 33 runs. Compared to him, Kamindu Mendis had an even briefer outing – bowling 2 overs for 16 runs. Liyanage had a great match, bowling 4 overs and giving up only 13 runs. This is a testament to his capabilities in limited overs cricket.
The game was played at very high intensity. Pakistan smothered the hosts with skillful penetrating deliveries, and clinical, productive execution, particularly during their innings. Babar Azam’s century not only exemplified his batting prowess but reinforced his vital role in the team’s success during the series.
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