Sri Lanka finished the third T20I against Pakistan with an impressive performance in both batting and bowling, successfully defending a total of 160 in a short 12-over match. Wanindu Hasaranga also made an impression in this encounter and was declared Man of the Match and Man of the Series.

Sri Lanka's Explosive Batting Display

Sri Lanka started with a flying start, making the most of the powerplay, despite losing some early wickets. They reached 47 in just 3.4 overs, but in the process, the Pakistani team was able to pick up two wickets.

The batting momentum was maintained as Sri Lanka achieved:

50 runs in 4.1 overs (25 balls),

100 runs in 8.4 overs (52 balls), 150 runs in 11.3 overs (69 balls).
A highly crucial phase of their innings was reached when the sixth wicket partnership was formed, in which 50 runs came in only 14 balls. Dasun Shanaka scored 32 and Janith Liyanage scored 18 crucial runs for Sri Lanka.

At the end of the innings break, Sri Lanka was at 160/6 in the 12th over, with an unbeaten score of 22 contributed by Liyanage and 1 for Hasaranga, thus requiring a target of 161 for

Pakistan’s Ambitious Pursuit Comes Up Short

The Pakistani team started their innings with an aggressive tempo. In the first power play overs, they lost two wickets and scored 60 runs. The aggressive start by the Pakistani team helped them reach:

50 runs in 3.1 overs (19 balls).

There was some quick scoring in the second wicket, as 50 runs were scored in just 13 balls, mostly contributed by Agha Salman’s knock of 45, along with 5 by Saim Ayub.

Pakistan reached 100 in 7.6 overs, and though they were keeping the chase on, frequent wickets and pressure made them tackle the last overs slowly.
One significant moment came just after 11.6, as Sri Lanka got a successful review, which led to the downfall of Mohammad Wasim for 1, confirmed by umpire RA Kottahachchi. This marked the end of fate for Pakistan.

Pakistan managed to get 146/8 in 12 overs and came up 14 runs short of the target.

Hasaranga Shines Bright

Wanindu Hasaranga has once again shown why he is among the most prominent players in T20 cricket. His performance and leadership in the series helped him take away the Man of the Match and Series award, leading Sri Lanka to a victorious start in the tournament.

Match Summary

Sri Lanka: 160/6 (12 overs)

Pakistan: 146/8 (12 overs)

Outcome: Sri Lanka won by 14 runs

Man of the Match & Series : Wanindu Hasaranga

The mix of explosive batting and clever bowling by Sri Lanka under pressure proved too much as they finished the series strongly.