Rawalpindi, November 14, 2025 – Pakistan clinched the three-match ODI series 2-0 after a commanding eight-wicket victory over Sri Lanka in the second ODI at Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium.
The star of the match was Babar Azam, whose long-awaited century powered Pakistan to a dominant chase and sealed the series with one game remaining.
Pakistan delivered a confident all-round display. Stand-in captain Salman Agha praised his side’s batting depth, noting that three strong partnerships made the chase of 289 appear comfortable. He highlighted their disciplined bowling effort, adding that restricting Sri Lanka to 288 on a good batting wicket proved crucial. He also acknowledged the passionate Rawalpindi crowd, who turned up in large numbers to support the home side.
Sri Lanka’s skipper Charith Asalanka admitted his team fell short by 20–30 runs and lamented the lack of big scores from the top order. He expressed disappointment in the bowling unit, pointing out the costly wides and extras that allowed Pakistan to maintain control throughout the chase.
Babar Azam was named Player of the Match for his match-winning hundred. Reflecting on his performance, he said he had been waiting for this moment, aiming to convert his starts into a substantial knock. He expressed gratitude and said surpassing Saeed Anwar’s milestone was an honor, vowing to continue his strong form.
Earlier, Sri Lanka posted 288 after a promising start. Pathum Nissanka and Kamil Mishara added 51 for the opening stand, but Abrar Ahmed’s brilliant spell—claiming three wickets—halted their momentum. Janith Liyanage’s 54 and Hasaranga’s unbeaten 37 helped lift the total, while Haris Rauf also contributed with three wickets.
Sri Lanka’s bowling attack faltered as Pakistan’s top order dominated from the outset. A blistering 77-run opening stand set the tone, with Fakhar Zaman scoring a brisk 78 despite multiple dropped chances. Two century partnerships followed, and Mohammad Rizwan added a composed half-century to guide Pakistan home.
With this emphatic victory, Pakistan secure an unassailable 2-0 lead ahead of the final ODI on November 16, aiming for a clean sweep in the series.