A sensational bowling performance from Wanindu Hasaranga powered Sri Lanka to a crucial 14-run victory [DLS] over Pakistan in a rain-shortened third T20I at the Rangiri Dambulla International Stadium on Sunday. The match, reduced to a 12-overs-a-side contest due to persistent showers, saw Sri Lanka defend a challenging total to square the series in dramatic fashion.
Sri Lanka post massive total after aggressive batting display
After Pakistan won the toss and elected to bowl, Sri Lanka came out with clear attacking intent despite losing Pathum Nissanka early. Kamil Mishara provided early momentum with a brisk 20 off eight balls, but it was Kusal Mendis who anchored the innings with a fluent 30 from just 16 deliveries, keeping the run rate well above 12 an over.
Middle-order contributions from Dhananjaya de Silva and Charith Asalanka ensured Sri Lanka maintained pressure despite regular wickets. Captain Dasun Shanaka then played a powerful cameo, smashing 34 off just nine balls as Sri Lanka surged past the 150-run mark in the final over.
Late hitting from Janith Liyanage (22 not out off 8) pushed Sri Lanka to an imposing 160 for 6 from 12 overs, a total that proved decisive on a damp surface. Pakistan’s bowlers, led by Mohammad Wasim Jr, struggled with execution as the shortened format left little margin for error.
Pakistan’s chase falters despite Salman Agha’s blitz
Pakistan’s reply began brightly through Salman Agha, who played a breathtaking knock of 45 from just 12 balls. His clean striking briefly swung momentum in Pakistan’s favour, especially during a rapid 51-run partnership that raised hopes of a successful chase.
However, Sri Lanka struck back at crucial moments. The dismissal of Salman Agha by Matheesha Pathirana triggered a collapse as wickets fell in quick succession. Saim Ayub and Usman Khan were also dismissed in single digits, leaving Pakistan behind the required rate.
Wanindu Hasaranga turns the match with game-changing spell
Hasaranga delivered the decisive blow with a match-winning spell, claiming four wickets for 35 runs in his three overs. His scalps included key batters Khawaja Nafay and Shadab Khan, breaking Pakistan’s middle-order resistance. Supported by disciplined bowling from Pathirana and Eshan Malinga, Sri Lanka tightened the screws in the final overs.
Despite late resistance from the tailenders, Pakistan finished on 146 for 8, falling 14 runs short of the target.
