Pakistan made a winning start to the three-match T20 International series against Sri Lanka, securing a four-wicket victory at Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium on Friday after Sahibzada Farhan and Maaz Sadaqat delivered impressive half-centuries in a successful chase of 183 runs.
Farhan, Maaz power Pakistan to four-wicket win over Sri Lanka in first T20I
ISLAMABAD, Oct 09 (APP): Pakistan made a winning start to the three-match T20 International series against Sri Lanka, securing a four-wicket victory at Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium on Friday after Sahibzada Farhan and Maaz Sadaqat delivered impressive half-centuries in a successful chase of 183 runs.
Chasing a challenging target, Pakistan reached 187 for six in 18.5 overs, taking a 1-0 lead in the series with seven balls to spare. Farhan led the charge with a commanding 89 off 53 deliveries, combining controlled stroke play with powerful hitting to keep the required run rate within reach. Maaz provided excellent support, scoring a brisk 50 off 29 balls to strengthen Pakistan’s position during the chase.
The pair played a decisive role in steadying Pakistan after early pressure and building momentum towards the target. Their attacking approach kept the hosts ahead of the required rate despite Sri Lanka’s efforts to make regular breakthroughs. Khawaja Nafay eventually sealed the victory in emphatic fashion, smashing a six off Eshan Malinga in the 19th over.
Earlier, Sri Lanka posted a competitive 182 for eight in their allotted 20 overs after winning the toss and electing to bat. Opener Lahiru Udara produced an outstanding innings of 91 off 55 balls, striking 11 fours and a six to anchor the visitors’ batting effort.
Udara kept Sri Lanka’s innings on track with an aggressive display, particularly as wickets fell at regular intervals at the other end. His contribution helped the visitors establish a challenging total, although Pakistan’s bowlers managed to restrict their scoring opportunities during key stages of the innings.
Naseem Shah led Pakistan’s bowling attack with three wickets, while Mohammad Imran Randhawa claimed two. Razaullah also made a promising impression on his international debut by picking up a wicket, contributing to Pakistan’s efforts to contain the Sri Lankan batting lineup.
The victory gave Pakistan an encouraging start to the series, with Farhan and Maaz emerging as the key performers in a successful run chase. The second T20 International will be played at Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium on October 11, while the third and final match is scheduled for October 13.
