Sri Lanka Opt to Field First Against Pakistan in 2nd T20I

News Desk 

RAWALPINDI: Sri Lanka won the toss and elected to field first against Pakistan in the second T20 International of the three-match series at Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium on Sunday.

Sri Lankan captain Kusal Mendis opted to bowl after winning the toss, putting Pakistan in to bat as the hosts look to extend their 1-0 lead and move closer to sealing the series.

Pakistan captain Sahibzada Farhan said the pitch appeared harder and had less grass than the surface used in the opening match. He expressed confidence that the conditions would suit Pakistan’s batting approach.

Cricket experts expect Pitch No. 1 to offer consistent bounce and good pace, potentially providing batters with favourable conditions for an entertaining contest.

Both teams have made changes to their playing XIs for the crucial encounter. Sri Lanka have made three changes, while Pakistan have brought in Salman Mirza in place of Razaullah.

Pakistan Playing XI

Sahibzada Farhan (captain), Fakhar Zaman, Maaz Sadaqat, Hassan Nawaz, Saim Ayub, Khawaja Nafay (wicketkeeper), Shadab Khan, Mohammad Imran, Salman Mirza, Naseem Shah and Abrar Ahmed.

Sri Lanka Playing XI

Kusal Mendis (captain and wicketkeeper), Lahiru Udara, Senith Jayawardene, Kamindu Mendis, Sahan Arachchige, Dasun Shanaka, Chamindu Wickramasinghe, Maheesh Theekshana, Ishan Malinga, Binura Fernando and Nuwan Thushara.

Pakistan enter the second match with momentum after securing a four-wicket victory in the series opener on Friday, October 9. Sri Lanka posted 182 for eight in their allotted 20 overs, but Pakistan successfully chased down the target with nine balls remaining, losing six wickets.

Farhan and Maaz Sadaqat played key roles in Pakistan’s successful chase, helping the home side take an early lead in the series.

Pakistan will aim to win the second T20I to secure an unassailable 2-0 lead, while Sri Lanka will be looking to bounce back and level the series at 1-1 ahead of the decisive third match.