A sensational bowling performance from Wanindu Hasaranga Sri Lanka registered a crucial 14-run win over Pakistan in the rain-interrupted third T20 match at the Rangiri Dambulla International Stadium on Sunday. Due to persistent rain the match was reduced to 12 overs, with Sri Lanka defending a challenging score of 160 for 6 to level the series in dramatic fashion.
Sri Lanka made a huge score after aggressive batting performance
After Pakistan won the toss and elected to bowl, Sri Lanka took the field with clear attacking intent despite losing Pathum Nissanka early. Kamil Mishara provided the early momentum with a quickfire 20 off eight balls, but it was Kusal Mendis who carried the innings forward with 30 off just 16 balls, keeping the run rate above 12 per over.
Middle-order contributions from Dhananjay de Silva and Charith Asalanka ensured that Sri Lanka maintained the pressure despite losing regular wickets. Captain Dasun Shanaka then played a powerful cameo and scored 34 runs off just nine balls as Sri Lanka crossed the 150-run mark in the final over.
Late hitting from Zenith Liyanage and Hasaranga took Sri Lanka to 160 for 6 in 12 overs, a total that proved decisive on a wet surface. Pakistan’s bowlers, led by Mohammad Wasim Jr., struggled with execution as there was less margin for error in the shorter format.
Despite Salman Aga’s attack, Pakistan’s target faltered
Pakistan’s reply was started brilliantly by Salman Agha, who played a breathtaking inning of 45 runs in just 12 balls. His clean striking briefly swung the momentum in Pakistan’s favour, especially during a quick 51-run partnership that raised hopes of a successful chase.
However, Sri Lanka hit back at crucial moments. The rapid fall of wickets led to the collapse of the team with the dismissal of Salman Agha by Mathisha Pathirana. Saim Ayub and Usman Khan were unable to take advantage of their starts, leaving Pakistan behind at the required rate.
Wanindu Hasaranga turned the match with a game changing spell
Wanindu Hasaranga gave the decisive blow with a match-winning spell of four wickets for 35 runs in his three overs. Their leading batsmen included Khawaja Nafe and Shadab Khan, who broke the resistance of Pakistan’s middle order. With the help of disciplined bowling from Pathirana and Ishan Malinga, Sri Lanka tightened the noose in the final overs.
Despite late resistance from Mohammad Wasim Jr and Naseem Shah, Pakistan finished 146 for 8, 14 runs short of the target.
