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Pakistan Clinches Tri-Series Title with Six-Wicket Victory Over Sri Lanka
Pakistan secured the tri-series championship with a commanding six-wicket win over Sri Lanka, fueled by a devastating bowling performance and a composed chase. The victory, achieved in the 19th over, saw Pakistan dismantle the Sri Lankan batting lineup, restricting them to a modest 114 before comfortably reaching their target of 115.
Sri Lanka’s Dramatic collapse
The match hinged on a remarkable turnaround in Sri Lanka’s innings. Having reached a promising 84 for 1 in the 11th over, the side suffered a spectacular collapse, losing nine wickets for just 30 runs. This dramatic downturn was largely attributed to the relentless pressure applied by the Pakistani spin attack.
“How do you go from a 64-run second-wicket partnership to 114 all out? Let Sri Lanka show you how,” a commentator observed, highlighting the stark contrast in fortunes.
Pakistani Bowlers Dominate
Mohammad Nawaz led the charge with a three-wicket haul, supported by shaheen Shah Afridi and Abrar Ahmed, who each claimed three and two wickets respectively. The bowlers exploited the conditions effectively,utilizing both pace and spin to dismantle the Sri Lankan batting order. Seven consecutive Sri Lankan partnerships yielded six runs or fewer, illustrating the relentless pressure exerted by the Pakistani attack.
Babar Azam Guides Pakistan Home
The chase proved to be a measured affair, with openers Sahibzada Farhan and Saim ayub laying a solid foundation with a 46-run partnership. Captain Babar Azam then anchored the innings, scoring a steady 37 not out off 34 balls to guide his team to victory. While not a blistering knock, Babar’s innings was perfectly paced for the occasion.
One analyst noted that, “a score of 37 not out isn’t exactly stellar T20I material, but in the context of having to guide the team to a low target, Babar’s innings was sensibly-paced.”
Babar’s All-Round Performance
Beyond his batting contribution, Babar Azam showcased extraordinary athleticism in the field, taking three crucial catches. His dismissal of Kusal Mendis was a notably impressive overhead grab on the boundary, while his catch to remove Kamil Mishara involved a diving effort from the straight boundary. He also secured the wicket of Pavan Rathnayake with a leaping catch inside the circle. This all-round performance comes as Babar suggests he is returning to his best form.
Mishara’s Lone Bright Spark for Sri Lanka
Despite the team’s overall struggles, young opener Kamil mishara provided a glimmer of hope with a spirited 59 off 47 balls. He demonstrated a powerful aerial game during the powerplay, hitting three sixes between long off and deep midwicket. with this being his second successive half-century, Sri Lanka are likely to continue investing in his potential.
“Although Sri Lanka would fail spectacularly to build on it,their young opener Mishara had set a launching pad,” a source stated,acknowledging the positive intent behind his innings.
The victory marks a important achievement for Pakistan, showcasing their strength in both bowling
