England’s campaign in the ODI tri-series has officially concluded after Sri Lanka delivered a dominant performance against Pakistan at the Gaddafi Stadium. The hosts were skittled for just 110, a total that stands as their second-lowest ODI score on home soil, effectively extinguishing any mathematical chance for the Three Lions to advance to the final. This crushing defeat for Pakistan allowed Sri Lanka to secure their place in the decider, marking a decisive turning point in the tournament’s trajectory.
Madushanka’s career-best 5-34 dismantles Pakistan, securing Lankan spot in final
The collapse was spearheaded by fast bowler Dilshan Madushanka, who posted a career-best figure of 5-34 to dismantle the Pakistani batting lineup. Captain Kusal Mendis won the toss and opted to field, a decision that proved pivotal as the Sri Lankan attack strangled the opposition from the outset. The 110-run total is a historic low for Pakistan in their backyard, surpassed only by their dismal 75 all out against Sri Lanka in Lahore in 2009, highlighting the severity of the batting failure under pressure.
Sri Lanka responded with composure, chasing down the modest target in just 18.1 overs to finish at 114-2. This victory caps a remarkable week for the visitors, who previously chased down 430 against England in Rawalpindi—the second-highest successful pursuit in ODI history. With the floodlights not yet fully illuminated for the day-night fixture, the winning runs were secured, cementing Sri Lanka’s status as the tournament’s most consistent side and leaving England to reflect on their early exit.
Source: The Independent Sport
