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RAWALPINDI: Pakistan’s day got underway with a strong strategic move as stand-in captain Salman Ali Agha won the toss and elected to field in the second one-day international against Sri Lanka in Rawalpindi.
With regular skipper Shaheen Shah Afridi absent due to illness, Agha marshalled the bowling attack and introduced changes including pace bowler Mohammad Wasim Jr and spinner Abrar Ahmed.
As the innings unfolded, Sri Lanka moved to 140 for 4 in 29 overs, posting a decent start but still facing pressure under Pakistan’s new-look attack. With the required run rate creeping upward, the visitors’ middle order will need to steady the ship and rebuild after early setbacks.
The context is far from ordinary. The series opener saw Pakistan narrowly edge Sri Lanka by six runs under intense security scrutiny, after a suicide bombing in Islamabad triggered serious concern over the tour’s continuation. Pakistan’s decision to field first reflects confidence in their bowling depth, especially given the inclusion of former all-rounder Faheem Ashraf’s replacement by Abrar Ahmed in the playing XI.
Sri Lanka’s score of 140/4 in 29 overs offers both challenge and opportunity. At a run-rate of around 4.8 per over, they’re behind ideal scoring pace for an ODI target above 300, yet the foundation remains intact if their middle order can capitalise. Pakistan’s revamped bowling combo will aim to strike quickly and press for a series‐clinching win.
With this match serving as Pakistan’s chance to seal the three-match series 2-0, the pressure is on Sri Lanka to avoid falling further behind in the contest. The outcome will hinge on how the remaining overs are negotiated, and whether Pakistan’s economy of runs tightens as the innings progresses.
