Dramatic Last-Over Victory for Pakistan

Pakistan secured a thrilling win in the first match of the series, defeating Sri Lanka by 6 runs in the final over. On Tuesday at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium, Pakistan batted first and posted 299 runs for 5 wickets in 50 overs, thanks to a brilliant century from Salman Agha. In reply, Sri Lanka fought valiantly till the last ball but were restricted to 293 runs.

Salman Agha was the backbone of Pakistan’s innings, remaining unbeaten on a superb 105 off 87 balls, studded with 9 boundaries. His 138-run partnership with Hussain Talat for the sixth wicket rescued Pakistan from early trouble and set up a competitive total. Toward the end, Mohammad Nawaz played a crucial cameo of 36* runs from 23 balls, helping to boost the team’s total.

Pakistan had a challenging start as Sri Lankan spinner Wanindu Hasaranga dismantled the top order, dismissing Fakhar Zaman (32), Mohammad Rizwan (5), and Babar Azam (29). By the 24th over, Pakistan were struggling at 95 for 4. However, Agha and Talat’s composure stabilized the innings and built momentum, while Nawaz’s late surge helped Pakistan add 104 runs in the last 10 overs, shifting the match’s momentum.

Sri Lanka began their chase aggressively, with openers Pathum Nissanka and debutant Kamil Mishara putting on 85 runs for the first wicket. But their momentum faltered as Kusal Mendis was dismissed for a golden duck.

Charith Asalanka (32) and Janith Liyanage (28) fell quickly, narrowing Sri Lanka’s chances of victory. Still, Wanindu Hasaranga revived hopes with a fighting 59 off 52 balls, hitting 7 boundaries. Maheesh Theekshana remained unbeaten on 23 off 18 deliveries, keeping the contest alive till the end.

Sri Lanka needed 21 runs in the final over. Theekshana hit two boundaries to collect 14 runs, but the team ultimately fell short, finishing at 293 for 9.

Pakistan’s strong partnership between Agha and Talat, combined with Nawaz’s explosive finish, sealed the victory. Despite Hasaranga’s valiant effort bringing Sri Lanka close, Pakistan’s discipline and tactical execution ensured a dramatic win in the final over.