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Sri Lanka secured a convincing victory over a more seasoned Pakistani side, winning by 13 runs to complete a dominant series whitewash. This marks a rare low point for Pakistan, who hadn't been swept in a series since England defeated them in the UAE back in 2015.
Ranked seventh globally, Pakistan seemed to have the upper hand while chasing a target of 148, largely driven by Haris Sohail's 52 off 50 deliveries. But the momentum shifted when Wanindu Hasaranga stepped up with a crucial performance, stifling their progress and limiting Pakistan to 134-6 by the end of the 20 overs.
Hasaranga proved to be the game-changer, removing Sohail in the 16th over and then dismissing captain Sarfaraz Ahmed in the 18th. Meanwhile, Oshada Fernando made history for Sri Lanka, becoming the first player from his nation to post such a high score in a T20I debut; he smashed 78 runs off 48 balls, including eight fours and three sixes. He surpassed the previous records of 46 set by Jehan Mubarak and Danushka Gunathilaka. Thanks to these efforts, particularly from Fernando, Sri Lanka reached 147-7 in 20 overs, ensuring a win on away soil.
What makes this win even more impressive is that Sri Lanka was missing ten of its star players, including captain Lasith Malinga. Despite the depleted squad, they remained unfazed, capping off a perfect series after winning the first two matches by 64 and 35 runs.
Pakistan's downfall was rooted in the early stages of the game, and they couldn't claw their way back despite some fighting spirit from Babar Azam and Iftikhar Ahmed. Sri Lanka also had a shaky start, with Fernando nearly faltering after two wickets fell for just 28 runs, but he recovered brilliantly to anchor a 76-run partnership for the fifth wicket.
In an effort to bring international cricket back to their shores following a period of suspension due to security concerns, Pakistan has been hosting various teams. This recent series marks the second time they have welcomed Sri Lanka since 2017.
Written by: Leon Osamor