Sri Lanka VS Pakistan in 6th match of Tri-Series: Lions defeat Shaheens in decider

RAWALAPINDI: In a high-voltage encounter of the 2025 Pakistan T20I Tri-Nation Series, Sri Lanka clinched a narrow six-run victory over Pakistan, defending a competitive total of 184-5 at the end of 20 overs.

Sri Lanka Batting Line

Sri Lanka’s innings was anchored by a brilliant knock from Kamil Mishara, who smashed 76 off 48 balls, striking six fours and three sixes at an impressive strike rate of 158.33. Supporting contributions came from Kusal Mendis, who added a rapid 40 off 23 balls, and Janith Liyanage, remaining unbeaten on 24. Skipper Dasun Shanaka chipped in with a quickfire 17 off 10, before being run out by Babar Azam. Sri Lanka’s aggressive batting display set Pakistan a challenging target of 185.

Pakistan bowlers, led by Abrar Ahmed and Saim Ayub, made valuable breakthroughs but were unable to fully contain the Lankan top order.

In reply, Pakistan fought hard but managed 178-7 in their 20 overs, falling just short of the target. Despite individual efforts, Sri Lanka’s disciplined bowling and tight fielding in the death overs secured the win.

With this victory, Sri Lanka sealed an important result in the Tri-Nation Series, showcasing strong form ahead of the final stages of the tournament.

Pakistan Batting Line

Pakistan’s bowlers got some breakthroughs, with Salman Mirza dismissing opener Pathum Nissanka for 8, and Abrar Ahmed claiming two crucial wickets, including that of Kusal Mendis. Saim Ayub also struck, removing Kusal Perera cheaply. Despite these efforts, Sri Lanka’s top and middle order ensured a strong finish, bolstered by 13 extras from Pakistan’s bowling.

With 184 runs on the board, Pakistan now faces a challenging chase under lights in Rawalpindi. As of the halfway mark, the win probability is almost evenly poised, with Sri Lanka slightly ahead at 52 per cent and Pakistan at 48 per cent.

Tonight’s match promises a thrilling contest as Pakistan’s batters look to overturn the Lions’ imposing total and keep their hopes alive in the tri-series.

Captains of both teams included top-notch players to make sure the nicest game is played on ground tonight in the Pakistan hosted Tri Nation Series.

Pakistan Playing XI

The Green Shirts players for the Sri Lanka vs Pakistan match included Teams Saim Ayub, Sahibzada Farhan, Babar Azam, Salman Ali Agha (c), Usman Khan (wk), Fakhar Zaman, Mohammad Nawaz, Faheem Ashraf, Mohammad Wasim, Salman Mirza, Abrar Ahmed

Sri Lanka Playing XI

The Lions XI also included the best players into their team. Pathum Nissanka, Kusal Mendis (wk), Kamil Mishara, Kusal Janith Perera, Janith Liyanage, Dasun Shanaka (c), Pavan Ratnayake, Wanindu Hasaranga, Dushmantha Chameera, Maheesh Theekshana, Eshan Malinga are all leading their team in the crucial match tonight.