Shadab Khan’s Heroic Return Powers Pakistan to Convincing First T20I Win
DAMBULLA – Shadab Khan marked his return to international cricket with an clinical all-round performance, guiding Pakistan to a comfortable six-wicket victory over Sri Lanka in the series opener on Wednesday night.
Chasing a modest target of 129 at the Rangiri Dambulla International Stadium, Pakistan reached the finish line with 20 balls to spare, taking a 1-0 lead in the three-match series.
Early Breakthroughs Stifle Sri Lanka
After opting to bowl first, Pakistan’s pace attack immediate set the tone. Mohammad Salman Mirza provided the first breakthrough by dismissing Kamil Mishara in the third over, followed quickly by Mohammad Wasim Jnr, who sent Pathum Nissanka packing. With the hosts reeling at 15-2, the stage was set for the spin department to take over.
Shadab and Abrar Dominate the Middle Overs
Making his highly anticipated comeback from injury, Shadab Khan made an instant impact. He struck twice in his opening over, removing Kusal Mendis and Dhananjaya de Silva in the span of just three deliveries.
While Janith Liyanage offered some resistance with a top-scoring 40, Abrar Ahmed (3-25) and Salman Mirza (3-18) ensured the Sri Lankan middle order never gained momentum. A late-innings collapse saw the hosts lose their final four wickets for just two runs, eventually being bowled out for 128 in 19.2 overs.
Farhan and Saim Set the Foundation
Pakistan’s chase began with intent. Openers Saim Ayub (24) and Sahibzada Farhan combined for an explosive 59-run opening stand in just under six overs. Though Ayub was cleaned up by Maheesh Theekshana, Farhan continued his fine form, anchoring the innings with a composed 51 off 35 balls—his eighth T20I half-century.
Clinical Finish by the Vice-Captain
Despite a few quick wickets in the middle overs, including the dismissal of skipper Salman Ali Agha, Shadab Khan ensured there were no further hiccups. The all-rounder struck an unbeaten 18 off 12 balls, including three boundaries, to see Pakistan home in the 17th over.
For his crucial two wickets and finishing touch with the bat, Shadab Khan was named Player of the Match.
Series at a Glance
The teams will remain in Dambulla for the rest of the tour, with Pakistan looking to clinch the series in the next fixture.
- 1st T20I: Pakistan won by 6 wickets.
- 2nd T20I: 9 January, 6:30 PM PKT.
- 3rd T20I: 11 January, 6:30 PM PKT.
