Pakistan held their nerve to defeat Sri Lanka by six runs in a gripping Pakistan vs Sri Lanka 1st ODI in Rawalpindi. Salman Agha’s unbeaten century and Haris Rauf’s fiery spell helped the hosts take a 1-0 lead in the three-match series despite Wanindu Hasaranga’s spirited all-round performance.
Agha and Talat Power Pakistan to 299 After Early Stumbles
After being put in to bat, Pakistan faced early struggles as Wanindu Hasaranga struck three key blows. However, Salman Agha and Hussain Talat steadied the innings with a brilliant 138-run stand for the fifth wicket. Their partnership shifted the momentum as Pakistan recovered from 95 for 4 to a commanding position.
Agha remained unbeaten on 105 from 84 balls, showcasing composure and creativity in his shot selection. Talat’s 62 added much-needed stability before Mohammad Nawaz provided late fireworks with a rapid 36*. Together, they lifted Pakistan to 299 for 5, a total that proved just enough.
Hasaranga finished with 3 for 54, while Asitha Fernando and Maheesh Theekshana picked one wicket each.
Rauf’s Spell Turns the Game as Pakistan Fight Back
Chasing 300, Sri Lanka got off to a flying start with Pathum Nissanka and debutant Kamil Mishara adding 85 for the first wicket. Pakistan’s bowlers struggled with discipline early, conceding 26 wides during the powerplay. However, the game turned when Haris Rauf struck twice in quick succession, dismissing Mishara and Kusal Mendis in back-to-back deliveries.
Nissanka soon edged behind, reducing Sri Lanka from 85 for 0 to 90 for 3. Despite a 57-run stand between Charith Asalanka and Sadeera Samarawickrama, Pakistan stayed in control through Shaheen Afridi’s sharp bowling and Babar Azam’s spectacular slip catch.
When Asalanka and Janith Liyanage fell in quick succession, Sri Lanka’s chase faltered once more.
Hasaranga’s Fightback Not Enough for Sri Lanka
With wickets tumbling, Wanindu Hasaranga counterattacked brilliantly, scoring 59 off 52 balls. His clever shot placement and controlled aggression kept Sri Lanka in the game, but his dismissal in the penultimate over ended the visitors’ hopes.
Maheesh Theekshana’s late hits reduced the margin to six runs, yet Pakistan sealed the win after a tense final over from Hussain Talat.
The victory gave Pakistan a 1-0 series lead in the Pakistan vs Sri Lanka ODI series, rewarding them for Agha’s heroics and Rauf’s four-wicket burst despite fielding errors and extras.
