Post by : Maya Rahman

In a commanding performance, Pakistan triumphed over Sri Lanka by eight wickets in the second one-day international held in Rawalpindi on Friday. This victory earned them the three-match series 2-0, amidst heightened security measures following a recent suicide bombing in Islamabad. Although Sri Lanka had expressed concerns about their safety, their cricket board insisted that the scheduled tour should proceed.

To ensure the safety of the visiting team, Pakistan implemented rigorous security protocols, deploying army and paramilitary forces. Army Chief Asim Munir reassured Sri Lanka’s Defence Minister Pramitha Bandara Tennakoon of the players' safety, allowing the match to proceed without any incidents, which instilled confidence in both fans and players during this tense period.

Sri Lanka set a challenging target after batting first, establishing a strong 51-run opening partnership before experiencing a setback with the run-out of Pathum Nissanka. Sadeera Samarawickrama chipped in with 42 runs, but his innings ended when he was dismissed by Haris Rauf. A solid partnership of 73 runs between Janith Liyanage and Kamindu Mendis helped stabilize the innings, with Wanindu Hasaranga finishing unbeaten on 37. Rauf and Abrar Ahmed were the standout bowlers for Pakistan, each taking three wickets.

Pakistan's response to a target of 289 runs was aggressive right from the start. Openers Saim Ayub and Fakhar Zaman attacked the Sri Lankan bowlers fiercely, although Ayub was dismissed for 33 by Dushmantha Chameera. Babar Azam joined Zaman, focusing on rotating the strike and punishing poor deliveries. Several dropped catches from the Sri Lankan side helped Pakistan maintain their momentum. Zaman scored a quick 78, setting up a crucial partnership with Mohammad Rizwan.

Babar Azam played a poised and strategic innings, marking his 20th ODI century and breaking an 84-inning drought. Rizwan added an unbeaten 51, establishing a 112-run partnership with Azam. Together, they propelled Pakistan to victory with 10 balls remaining, securing the series win as Azam hit the winning runs, capping off a remarkable display against adversity.

The final ODI is set to take place in Rawalpindi on Sunday. Following this series, a T20 tri-series featuring Pakistan, Sri Lanka, and Zimbabwe is scheduled to commence on Tuesday, promising fans more thrilling cricket as Pakistan continues to build hope and confidence at home.

#Sports News