Pakistan overcome an early batting collapse to chase down 326 runs in a thrilling final at Gaddafi Stadium, securing a seven-wicket victory with nine balls to spare.
Pakistan produced a remarkable comeback to defeat Sri Lanka by three wickets in the ODI tri-series final at Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore, on Saturday, as Fakhar Zaman’s magnificent century and crucial contributions from Saad Baig and Arafat Minhas powered the hosts to a memorable title triumph.
Chasing 326 runs, Pakistan completed the target at 326-7 in 48.3 overs, turning a disastrous start into a thrilling victory in front of their home supporters.
Fakhar Zaman Leads Pakistan’s Remarkable Recovery
Pakistan’s chase suffered an early setback when Dilshan Madushanka dismissed Maaz Sadaqat and Babar Azam in quick succession, leaving the hosts struggling at 14-2.
Fakhar Zaman and Saad Baig then revived the innings with a brilliant 149-run partnership for the third wicket. Baig scored an impressive 74 off 75 deliveries, featuring 11 boundaries, before Maheesh Theekshana ended his resistance.
Fakhar continued to dominate the Sri Lankan bowling attack, combining with Salman Ali Agha to strengthen Pakistan’s position. The opener reached his 12th ODI century before Madushanka dismissed him for 127 off 99 balls, including 11 fours and six sixes.
Agha contributed 17 runs before Pakistan entered the final phase of the chase at 230-5.
Arafat Minhas Delivers Match-Winning Knock
With the pressure mounting, Hasan Nawaz and Arafat Minhas formed a decisive 94-run partnership to bring Pakistan closer to victory.
Minhas played an outstanding attacking innings, scoring 61 from only 31 balls with three fours and four sixes. Despite Asitha Fernando removing Minhas and Faheem Ashraf in the same over, Pakistan remained within reach.
Shaheen Shah Afridi finished the contest dramatically, smashing Madushanka for a six to seal the championship.
Kamindu Mendis Century Lifts Sri Lanka
Earlier, Sri Lanka posted 325-8 after Kamindu Mendis scored a superb 131 off 128 balls. Pavan Rathnayake supported him with 77, as the pair added 146 runs for the third wicket.
Shaheen Afridi, Naseem Shah, Salman Ali Agha and Haris Rauf claimed two wickets each for Pakistan.
The victory highlighted Pakistan’s batting resilience and secured a memorable home triumph in the ODI tri-series final.