1st ODI: Pakistan defeat Sri Lanka by 6 runs

Rawalpindi (Web Desk): Pakistan defeated Sri Lanka by 6 runs in a thrilling contest to take a 1-0 lead in the three-match ODI series.

In the match played at Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium, Pakistan set Sri Lanka a target of 300 runs. However, Sri Lanka could only manage 293 runs, losing 9 wickets. Wanindu Hasaranga, who came in at number 8, played a brilliant knock of 59 runs off 52 balls, bringing his team close to the target, but fell short of guiding Sri Lanka to victory.

Other notable contributions for Sri Lanka came from Sadira Samaraweera, who scored 39, Kamindu Mendis with 38, and Pathum Nissanka, who made 29 runs.

For Pakistan, Haris Rauf was the standout bowler, taking 4 wickets for 61 runs. Faheem Ashraf and Naseem Shah both picked up 2 wickets each.

Earlier, Pakistan had batted first and set a competitive total, thanks to a brilliant unbeaten century from Salman Ali Agha, along with valuable contributions from Hussain Talat (62 runs) and Mohammad Nawaz (36*). Pakistan finished their allotted 50 overs with 299 runs for 5 wickets.

Pakistan’s victory was built on solid batting performances and a disciplined bowling attack. Haris Rauf's excellent spell and Salman Ali Agha's century played pivotal roles in securing the win for the team.