Despite Gunathilaka's resilient effort of 133 runs from 134 deliveries helping Sri Lanka reach 297-9, Pakistan successfully chased the target in 48.2 overs to take the series.
Gunathilaka’s tough knock to get 133 runs in 134-balls, helped Sri Lanka get a total of 297-9 in their 50 overs but Pakistan achieved the score in 48.2 overs for their first series.
Just a week before, Abid Ali was dominating the domestic circuit for Sindh, recording a career-high 249 not out against Balochistan's bowlers, including Yasir Shah and Taj Weli. Yet, despite this incredible form, he still seemed unlikely to make the cut for the national team.
Everything changed during the second ODI against Sri Lanka when Imam-ul-Haq, the primary opener, was sidelined with a hand injury, allowing Abid to step into the lineup.
Taking place in Karachi, the second match ended in a 67-run victory for Pakistan, while the first game was completely rained out before a single ball could be bowled.
The foundation of Pakistan's success was laid by Fakhar Zaman and Abid Ali, who put on a commanding 123-run opening stand in just 20 overs. They were well-supported by Haris Sohail's 56 and a rapid 28 not out from Iftikhar Ahmed.
Pakistan closed out the game with 37 runs in the final five overs, with Iftikhar hitting a boundary and a six to secure a victory that marked Pakistan's eighth straight ODI win over Sri Lanka since 2017.
Sohail and Iftikhar both contributed three fours and a six each. Abid Ali displayed great timing with 10 boundaries in his 67-ball stay, eventually reaching his second ODI century in just his fourth appearance before Wanindu Hasaranga got him LBW.