RAWALPINDI: Sri Lanka has set a modest 129 run target for Pakistan in the Tri-Nation T20I series on Saturday at Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium.
Pakistan’s spin spearhead Mohammad Nawaz dominated the innings, claiming a match-turning 3/16 in four overs and keeping the visitors under check.
Sri Lanka’s innings was anchored by Janith Liyanage, who remained unbeaten on 41 off 38 balls, while Kusal Perera scored a quick 25.
Other batters struggled to build partnerships as wickets tumbled at regular intervals, including the dismissals of captain Dasun Shanaka for a duck and Pathum Nissanka for 17.
Nawaz’s clever variations and accuracy made scoring difficult, as he struck crucial blows, removing both Perera and Shanaka. Abrar Ahmed (1/28) and Salman Mirza (1/26) also contributed, breaking partnerships at key stages, while Faheem Ashraf picked up 1/15 in his two overs.
Extras added six runs to Sri Lanka’s total, with five coming from wides. The scoreboard highlighted Sri Lanka’s middle-order struggle despite a late cameo from Liyanage and Wanindu Hasaranga’s 11 off 12 balls.
Pakistan will be hoping for a better position and will look to their experienced batting line-up including Babar Azam, Fakhar Zaman, and captain Salman Ali Agha, Fakhar Zaman to chase down the modest target.
