In a thrilling encounter, Pakistan pulled off a historic World Cup run chase by defeating Sri Lanka by six wickets, successfully chasing down a big target of 345 runs.
This remarkable victory was built upon the heroics of Mohammad Rizwan and Abdullah Shafique, both of whom showcased their batting prowess for centuries.
Pakistan’s chase didn’t begin smoothly, as opener Imam-ul-Haq and captain Babar Azam fell early in the innings. However, Rizwan and Shafique displayed tremendous resilience, gradually stabilizing the innings.
Their partnership quickly approached the 200-run milestone. Shafique marked his World Cup debut with a sensational century, scoring 113, while Rizwan recorded his second consecutive half-century.
Shafique’s spectacular innings eventually came to an end with a sensational catch by substitute fielder Dushan Hemantha, departing for 115 off 103 balls.
Rizwan, despite battling cramps and back issues, showcased remarkable determination, ultimately reaching his third ODI century and remaining unbeaten on 131. This partnership put Pakistan in a commanding position to secure the victory.
Earlier in the match, Sri Lanka had posted a challenging total of 344/9, courtesy of centuries from Kusal Mendis and Sadeera Samarawickrama.
Mendis and Pathum Nissanka initially forged a formidable partnership, amassing 102 runs for the second wicket before Shadab Khan made a crucial breakthrough, dismissing Nissanka for 51.
However, Mendis continued his onslaught, reaching his third ODI century off just 65 balls before eventually departing for 122 off 77 deliveries.
Hasan Ali’s back-to-back wickets brought some relief for Pakistan, but Samarawickrama held firm, achieving his maiden ODI century.
Despite late wickets in the final 10 overs, Sri Lanka’s early assault enabled them to come close to the 350-run mark.
Pakistan’s pursuit of this mammoth target showcased their determination to make amends for past encounters with Sri Lanka, particularly their loss in the Asia Cup.
Sri Lanka’s captain, Dasun Shanaka, chose to bat after winning the toss, and although Pakistan’s Hasan Ali struck early by dismissing Kusal Perera for a duck, the Nissanka-Mendis partnership unleashed a flurry of boundaries.
Shaheen Afridi struggled with his rhythm, and Pakistan’s woes deepened when a straightforward catch at backward point was dropped by Imam-ul-Haq.
Despite the change in Sri Lanka’s lineup, with Maheesh Theekshana replacing Kasun Rajitha, and Pakistan’s decision to bring Abdullah Shafique on board to open alongside Imam, the contest remained fiercely competitive.
This victory marks a significant turnaround for Pakistan, and they will look to maintain their momentum as they continue their World Cup campaign. The victory over Sri Lanka serves as a statement of intent and determination as they aim to achieve success in the tournament.
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