Pakistan finally silenced the critics and reclaimed their ODI tri-series crown, defeating Sri Lanka in a thrilling final in Lahore on Saturday. The hosts ended an 18-year title drought that stretched back to their 2008 victory over India in Bangladesh, securing their first major limited-overs trophy in over a decade. This win marks a pivotal moment for the team, which has built significant momentum in recent weeks, proving their resilience on the home front against a high-scoring opposition.
Fakhar Zaman’s 127 seals historic 18-year wait as hosts crush Sri Lanka in Lahore final
The match was defined by a high-octane batting duel, with Sri Lanka setting a daunting target of 326 after posting 325 for eight. Kamindu Mendis anchored the innings with a blistering 131 off 128 balls, supported by a rapid-fire 77 from Pavan Rathnayake. However, Pakistan’s chase was equally spectacular, with Fakhar Zaman delivering a masterclass of 127 off just 99 balls. The captain’s aggressive yet controlled knock allowed the hosts to cross the finish line with nine balls to spare, finishing at 331 for seven in a display of superior finishing power.
Looking ahead, the tournament featured strong squads from all three participating nations, highlighting the depth of talent in the current ODI landscape. England’s squad, led by Harry Brook, included key contributors like Sam Curran, Ben Duckett, and Adil Rashid, while Sri Lanka fielded a balanced mix of pace and spin with Maheesh Theekshana, Dasun Shanaka, and Kusal Mendis at the helm. For fans in India, this series underscores the competitive balance in white-ball cricket, with Pakistan’s resurgence signaling a potential shift in the global hierarchy as they look to sustain this form in upcoming international fixtures.
Source: Yahoo Sports
