Sri Lanka Beat Pakistan by Six Runs to Reach T20 Tri-Series Final

Sri Lanka defeated Pakistan by six runs in a thrilling T20 clash at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium on Thursday night, securing a spot in the tri-series final. Dushmantha Chameera’s brilliant bowling was the deciding factor, as he took 4 wickets for 20 runs and held his nerve in a tense final over, conceding just three runs to deny Pakistan a last-moment surge.

Chasing 185, Pakistan looked set for victory after a gritty partnership between captain Salman Ali Agha and Usman Khan. Salman’s unbeaten 63 off 44 balls showcased his ability to play under pressure, while Usman’s 33-run contribution kept Pakistan in contention. However, Chameera’s accurate yorkers and strategic variations in the final overs prevented the hosts from reaching the target. The six-run margin highlighted how close the contest was, despite Sri Lanka appearing under pressure at times.

Source: Cricinfo

Sri Lanka’s innings was built around a solid start from the openers. Kamil Mishara’s 76 off 48 balls, including lofted drives and crisp boundaries, anchored the innings, while Kusal Mendis contributed a quick 40 to set the platform. The pair’s 66-run stand in just 36 balls gave Sri Lanka an early flier. Lower-order cameos helped push the total to 184 for 5, providing a challenging target for Pakistan. Abrar Ahmed also impressed with the ball, picking up 2 wickets for 28 runs.

Source: Cricinfo                            

Chameera had earlier wreaked havoc on Pakistan’s top order. His opening spell saw three quick wickets in just two overs, dismissing key batters including Babar Azam and Fakhar Zaman, leaving Pakistan reeling at 43 for 4. Despite the early collapse, Salman Ali Agha steadied the innings and forged a crucial 56-run partnership with Usman Khan, keeping hopes alive. Mohammad Nawaz then brought Pakistan to the brink, narrowing the target and creating a tense finish.

Sri Lanka had shown hunger and intent from the outset. After Pakistan initially strangled their scoring in the powerplay, Mendis and Mishara counter-attacked, hitting boundaries and sixes that swung the momentum back in their favor. Their aggressive batting in the middle overs ensured Sri Lanka posted a defendable total.

The stakes were high for both teams. Sri Lanka needed the win to secure a spot in the final, while Pakistan aimed to maintain home advantage and advance. In the end, Sri Lanka’s combination of attacking batting and disciplined, high-pressure bowling made the difference. Chameera’s match-winning final over, where he executed yorkers perfectly and removed key wickets, encapsulated Sri Lanka’s performance and earned him the Player of the Match award.

With this win, Sri Lanka advance to the tri-series final, while Pakistan’s spirited chase falls just short despite impressive individual performances, particularly from Salman Ali Agha.

 Stay updated with the latest in sports- click here.