DAMBULLA, Sri Lanka — In a rain-curtailed 12-over shootout, Sri Lanka secured a hard-fought 14-run victory (via the DLS method) against Pakistan to level the three-match T20I series 1-1. Despite a breathtaking 45-run cameo from Pakistan’s captain Salman Ali Agha, the hosts’ bowling depth proved too much in the final moments at the Rangiri Dambulla International Stadium.
The Setup: Rain Turns Finale into a Sprint
After a total washout in the second game, persistent weather forced the series finale into a condensed 12-overs-per-side contest. Sri Lanka, batting first, set a mammoth target of 160/6, operating at a blistering run rate of 13.33 per over.
The innings was ignited by Kusal Mendis (30) and Dhananjaya de Silva (22), but it was the late-order explosion that stunned the visitors. Skipper Dasun Shanaka smashed 34 runs off just 9 deliveries, including five towering sixes. He was ably supported by Janith Liyanage (22* off 8), as the pair added 52 runs in the final 15 balls of the innings.
Salman Ali Agha’s 12-Ball Fireworks
Pakistan’s chase began with intent. After the early loss of Sahibzada Farhan, captain Salman Ali Agha played one of the most explosive innings in recent T20 history. Salman hammered 45 runs off just 12 balls, striking five boundaries and three sixes.
His partnership with Saim Ayub added 51 runs in a mere 14 deliveries, putting Pakistan ahead of the required rate early on. However, the momentum shifted when Sri Lanka’s spin wizard, Wanindu Hasaranga, entered the fray.
Hasaranga and Death Bowlers Seal the Deal
The turning point came in the middle overs when Sri Lanka claimed three wickets in seven balls. Wanindu Hasaranga (4/35) was the architect of the collapse, dismissing debutant Khawaja Mohammad Nafay (26) and Shadab Khan in a single over.
While Mohammad Nawaz (28) kept Pakistan’s hopes alive, the death bowling pair of Matheesha Pathirana and Eshan Malinga executed a masterclass in the final two overs. Needing 30 from the last 12 balls, Pakistan was restricted to just 15 runs, ending their chase at 146/8.
Match Summary & Key Stats
- Result: Sri Lanka won by 14 runs (DLS Method).
- Series Status: Levelled 1-1.
- Player of the Match & Series: Wanindu Hasaranga.
Series Overview
- 1st T20I: Pakistan won by 6 wickets.
- 2nd T20I: Match abandoned (Rain).
- 3rd T20I: Sri Lanka won by 14 runs.
