Sri Lanka post strong total of 288
The Pakistan national cricket team produced a commanding performance to defeat the Sri Lanka national cricket team in the second One Day International in Rawalpindi. Batting first, Sri Lanka reached 288/8, with solid contributions from Janith Liyanage (54) and Kamindu Mendis (44).
Pakistan’s bowlers kept things under control, led by Haris Rauf and Abrar Ahmed, who picked up three wickets each. Their disciplined spells restricted Sri Lanka from pushing closer to the 320-mark, despite late resistance from the visitors.
Babar Azam leads brilliant chase
Chasing 289, Pakistan began aggressively with the help of opening batter Fakhar Zaman, who smashed a quick 78. His partnership with Saim Ayub gave Pakistan early momentum and put pressure on the Sri Lankan bowlers.
The innings was then expertly anchored by skipper Babar Azam, who produced a commanding, unbeaten century to guide Pakistan home. Alongside him, wicketkeeper-batter Mohammad Rizwan contributed an assured 51*, ensuring Pakistan secured victory with ten balls to spare.
Sri Lanka struggled with consistency, conceding extras and missing key chances. Their captain Charith Asalanka acknowledged after the match that the team was “20–30 runs short” and that their bowling lacked the discipline needed to contain Pakistan.
Pakistan seal the ODI series
With this victory, Pakistan take an unassailable 2–0 lead in the three-match ODI series, continuing their strong home record at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium. The result highlights Pakistan’s balanced approach — controlled bowling, explosive starts with the bat, and a calm finish from their experienced middle order.
Sri Lanka will now look to regroup quickly for the final match to avoid a clean sweep. Pakistan, on the other hand, will aim to maintain their winning momentum as they build towards future international assignments.
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