RAWALPINDI: Pakistan defeated Sri Lanka by six runs in a thrilling opening match of the One-Day series held at Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium on Tuesday.
In this encounter, Pakistan scored 299 runs for the loss of 5 wickets, with Salman Ali Agha’s outstanding century being the highlight. Agha’s innings of 105 runs came off 87 balls and included 9 fours. Hussain Talat also made a significant contribution, scoring 62 runs from 63 balls.
In response, Sri Lanka managed to score 293 runs for the loss of 9 wickets in their allotted 50 overs while chasing Pakistan’s target of 300 runs. Vinod Hasaranga was a standout bowler for Sri Lanka, taking three wickets.
The Sri Lankan captain chose to bowl first after winning the toss, citing humid conditions in the second innings as a factor in the decision. This match marks Shaheen Shah Afridi’s second ODI series as captain, and under his leadership, Pakistan recently claimed a 2-1 series victory against South Africa.
Historically, Pakistan and Sri Lanka have faced each other in 157 ODIs, with Pakistan winning 93 matches, Sri Lanka winning 59, one match resulting in a tie, and four matches ending with no result. In their previous meetings at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium, both teams have won one ODI each.
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