Pakistan Defeat Sri Lanka in Second ODI to Seal Series Victory

Pakistan Defeat Sri Lanka / Photo File (X@CBCricket)

Pakistan clinched the ODI series against Sri Lanka after securing an impressive victory in the second match played at Rawalpindi, where captain Babar Azam stole the spotlight with a magnificent century and was named Player of the Match.

Sri Lanka, batting first after Pakistan won the toss and opted to field, posted 288 runs for 8 wickets in their allotted overs. Janith Liyanage (54), Samarawickrama (42), and Mendis (44) delivered key contributions for the visitors. Pakistan’s bowling attack performed strongly, with Abrar Ahmed and Haris picking up three wickets each, while one Sri Lankan batter was run out.

Chasing a target of 289, Pakistan reached the score comfortably with 8 wickets in hand. Babar Azam played a captain’s knock, scoring a superb 102 runs, equaling Saeed Anwar’s record of 20 ODI centuries, making him the second Pakistani with the most ODI hundreds.

Fakhar Zaman added a solid 79 runs, while Mohammad Rizwan contributed 51, and Saim Ayub chipped in with 33 runs. Both Fakhar and Saim were dismissed by Chameera.

Pakistan made two changes in the playing XI for this match. Shaheen Shah Afridi was unavailable due to illness, while Faheem Ashraf was rested. Waseem Jr. and Abrar Ahmed were included, strengthening the bowling attack. According to team management, resting Shaheen was essential, and the inclusion of Waseem Jr. and Abrar provided added depth.

With this victory, Pakistan not only sealed the series but also showcased strong form ahead of future international assignments.