In a dramatic conclusion to the T20 tri-series league stage, Sri Lanka emerged victorious against Pakistan by a narrow six-run margin in Rawalpindi on Thursday. This crucial win propels them into Saturday’s championship final against the host nation.
Facing elimination in this must-win encounter, Sri Lanka posted a competitive total of 184 for 5 during their 20 overs. The innings was anchored by opener Kamil Mishara’s explosive 76 runs from just 48 deliveries, providing the foundation for their challenging score. Kusal Mendis contributed a valuable 40 runs to bolster the Lankan total, while Pakistani bowler Abrar Ahmed claimed two wickets for 28 runs.
Pakistan’s response was characterized by resilience after an early collapse left them struggling at 40 for 4. Captain Salman Agha spearheaded the recovery effort with an unbeaten 63 from 44 balls, supported by Usman Khan’s 33 runs. Despite their determined chase, the Pakistani team fell just short of the target, finishing at 178 for 7.
The match’s defining performance came from Sri Lankan pace bowler Dushmantha Chameera, whose exceptional four-wicket haul for just 20 runs earned him the Player of the Match honor. His clinical bowling in the death overs proved decisive in containing Pakistan’s late surge.
Sri Lankan captain Dasun Shanaka praised his team’s collective effort: ‘Everybody contributed so I’m happy. Kamil Mishara showed his capability and the discussions with the coaches helped him. When it comes to bowling, of course Chameera – world-class bowling.’
Pakistan skipper Salman Agha remained optimistic despite the defeat: ‘Where we came from, 40 for 4 – you don’t often come back and chase it down but we went close.’
The stage is now set for an electrifying final between the host nation Pakistan and a resurgent Sri Lankan team that has demonstrated both batting firepower and bowling precision under pressure.