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RAWALPINDI: Pakistan will host Sri Lanka today in the third and final One Day International (ODI) at Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium, looking to complete a commanding 3–0 series sweep. The Green Shirts already hold an unassailable 2–0 lead after convincing wins in the first two matches.
In the first ODI, Pakistan set Sri Lanka a target of 300, posting 299 for 7 in their 50 overs. The match was tightly contested, but Pakistan held their nerve to secure victory by just six runs.
The second ODI was a more dominant display. After Sri Lanka were restricted to 288/8, Pakistan chased down the total in 48.2 overs with the loss of only two wickets. Central to the run chase was Babar Azam, who ended his long century drought with a composed unbeaten 102 off 119 balls, reaching his 20th ODI hundred and equaling Saeed Anwar’s national record. He shared a key 112-run partnership with Mohammad Rizwan, who also contributed a steady 51 not out.
On the bowling front, Abrar Ahmed and Haris Rauf were instrumental in tightening the screws on Sri Lanka’s batting lineup, each finishing with three wickets to their name. Pakistan’s decision to field first paid off handsomely, and their balanced performance paved the way for a comfortable win.
Off the field, the series has taken place under heightened security. Sri Lankan players had expressed fears following a suicide bombing in nearby Islamabad, but the Sri Lankan board ultimately ordered them to continue the tour after reassurances from Pakistan authorities
Today’s final match gives Sri Lanka a chance to salvage pride, while Pakistan will aim to reinforce their dominance and carry momentum into the upcoming T20 tri-series.
Earlier on Saturday night, Pakistan cricket team captain Shaheen Afridi hosted a dinner in honour of the visiting Sri Lankan and Zimbabwean squads, where the guest players praised the taste and variety of Pakistani cuisine.
Players from both touring teams attended the dinner arranged by Shaheen Afridi, while members of Pakistan’s ODI and T20 squads were also present. The players enjoyed a wide range of traditional Pakistani dishes, and several Sri Lankan and Zimbabwean cricketers expressed appreciation for the flavours and hospitality.
The gathering offered the teams an opportunity to relax off the field and share time together ahead of their upcoming fixtures.
