Pakistan outplays Sri Lanka by seven wickets in Rawalpindi

News Desk

Islamabad: Pakistan cruised to a commanding seven-wicket win over Sri Lanka at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium on Saturday, powered by a blistering unbeaten 80 from Sahibzada Farhan.

Chasing a modest 129-run target, Pakistan completed the job with 27 balls remaining. Farhan’s explosive 80 off just 45 deliveries — laced with six fours and five sixes — set the tone for a one-sided chase.

He added 47 runs for the opening wicket with Saim Ayub, who made 20 off 18 before falling to Dasun Shanaka. Babar Azam chipped in with 16 off 22 and combined with Farhan for a steady 69-run second-wicket stand before being bowled by Dushmantha Chameera. Chameera struck twice in the over, also removing Salman Ali Agha for a duck, caught behind by Kusal Mendis. Usman Khan remained unbeaten on five.

Read More:https://thepenpk.com/pak-india-set-for-t20-world-cup-2026-clash-on-feb-15-reports/

Sri Lanka earlier posted 128-7 after opting to bat first, with Janith Liyanage anchoring the innings with a fighting 41 not out off 38 balls.

Openers Pathum Nissanka (17 off 23) and Kamil Mishara (22 off 12) gave the visitors a brisk start, the latter smashing two fours and two sixes. Kusal Perera added 25 off 19, while Wanindu Hasaranga contributed 11 down the order. The rest of the batting line-up faltered, with Kusal Mendis and Kamindu Mendis managing only three runs each.

Pakistan’s bowlers dominated throughout, spearheaded by Mohammad Nawaz’s superb 3-16. Salman Mirza, Faheem Ashraf and Abrar Ahmed took a wicket each. Nawaz was named Player of the Match for his pivotal spell.