In Rawalpindi, Pakistan triumphed over Sri Lanka by eight wickets in the second ODI, securing the series 2-0 on Friday. This victory came despite security concerns following a recent suicide bombing.
Concerns had arisen in the Sri Lankan camp after the bombing in Islamabad, near Rawalpindi. Some players wanted to return home, but the Sri Lankan cricket board insisted they stay, warning of consequences if they left.
To ensure safety, Pakistan deployed army and paramilitary support for the Sri Lankan team. Pakistan’s Army Chief Asim Munir assured Sri Lanka’s Defence Minister Pramitha Bandara Tennakoon of their security.
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Pursuing a target of 289, Babar Azam led Pakistan with a patient century, his 20th in ODIs and first in 84 innings, helping the team reach the target with 10 balls remaining.
Sri Lankan top order struggles
Batting first, Sri Lanka started well with a 51-run opening stand until Pathum Nissanka was run out. The top order showed potential but faltered, with Sadeera Samarawickrama scoring 42 before being bowled by Haris Rauf.
Janith Liyanage (54) and Kamindu Mendis (44) steadied the innings with a 73-run partnership, while Wanindu Hasaranga remained unbeaten on 37. Rauf and Abrar Ahmed took three wickets each for Pakistan.
Pakistan capitalizes on missed opportunities
Pakistan’s chase began aggressively as Saim Ayub and Fakhar Zaman capitalized on Sri Lanka’s poor bowling. Chameera eventually dismissed Ayub for 33.
Azam and Zaman then consolidated their position, punishing loose deliveries while Sri Lanka missed several catch opportunities.
Zaman was out for 78 after hitting a six, caught by Liyanage off Chameera. Mohammad Rizwan joined Azam to form a 112-run partnership, with Rizwan scoring an unbeaten 51 before Azam secured the win.
The final ODI is scheduled for Sunday in Rawalpindi, followed by a T20 tri-series with Zimbabwe starting Tuesday.
