Sri Lanka emerged victorious in a rain-affected third T20I against Pakistan, winning by 15 runs at the Rangiri Dambulla International Cricket Stadium to level the three-match series 1-1. The match was reduced to 12 overs per side after a significant delay.
Pakistan’s Chase Falls Short Despite Agha Blitz
Chasing a revised target of 161, Pakistan’s innings faltered after a promising start, finishing at 146-8. Captain Salman Ali Agha provided a spectacular burst, smashing 45 runs off just 12 balls, but his dismissal triggered a collapse. The middle order struggled against the spin of Wanindu Hasaranga, who was the chief destroyer with figures of 4/35 from his three overs.
Sri Lanka’s Innings Powered by Explosive Cameos
Batting first in the shortened contest, Sri Lanka posted 160/6. Dasun Shanaka played a pivotal cameo, scoring 34 runs from a mere nine deliveries, including five sixes. He was well-supported by Kusal Mendis (30 off 16) and Janith Liyanage, who remained unbeaten on 22 off eight balls. For Pakistan, Mohammad Wasim Jr. was the pick of the bowlers, claiming three wickets.
Key Moments and Turning Points
The match turned decisively in Sri Lanka’s favor during the middle overs of Pakistan’s chase. After Agha’s dismissal, Hasaranga struck twice in one over to leave Pakistan reeling at 67-4. A 49-run partnership between Khawaja Nafay and Mohammad Nawaz offered brief hope, but regular wickets ensured Sri Lanka maintained control. The hosts held their nerve in the final overs, restricting Pakistan to just five runs in the last over.
Series Concludes on Balanced Note
With this result, the T20I series ends evenly poised. The first match was won by Pakistan, while the second was abandoned without a ball bowled due to weather. Both teams will now look ahead to their upcoming international commitments.
