In a dramatic start to their one-day international (ODI) series, Pakistan secured a narrow six-run victory against Sri Lanka but faced a significant penalty for a slow over-rate. The International Cricket Council (ICC) confirmed that Pakistan was fined 20% of their match fees after falling four overs short of the target during Tuesday’s game. Match referee Ali Naqvi imposed the sanction on Thursday, with Pakistan’s captain, Shaheen Shah Afridi, admitting guilt for the offense. The match, held in Rawalpindi, was overshadowed by security concerns following a suicide bombing in Islamabad that claimed 12 lives just hours before the game. Despite initial fears, Sri Lanka Cricket instructed its team to continue the series after receiving assurances from the Pakistan Cricket Board regarding safety measures. The remaining two matches have been rescheduled for Friday and Sunday.