Pakistan began their T20I series against Sri Lanka in commanding fashion, sealing a six-wicket victory with 20 balls to spare in the opening match at Dambulla. The win was built on a disciplined bowling performance that strangled Sri Lanka’s batting before a brisk top-order chase made light work of a modest target.
On a pitch that offered variable bounce and grip after days under covers, Pakistan’s bowlers exploited conditions expertly. Salman Mirza (3 for 18) and Abrar Ahmed (3 for 25) led the charge, while a returning Shadab Khan claimed two wickets in an impactful comeback. Sri Lanka, sent in to bat, never found momentum and were bundled out for 128, losing their last four wickets for just one run.
Sri Lanka’s innings unraveled early as Mirza and Mohammad Wasim used the surface intelligently, mixing skiddy deliveries with slower ones that held in the pitch. The hosts stumbled to 35 for 2 in the powerplay and slumped to 38 for 4 inside seven overs. While Janith Liyanage’s 40 provided brief resistance, hopes of a competitive total evaporated when Abrar dismissed both Liyanage and Wanindu Hasaranga in quick succession, triggering a collapse at the death.
Pakistan’s chase was brisk and authoritative from the outset. Sahibzada Farhan and Saim Ayub put Sri Lanka immediately on the back foot with a 59-run opening stand in just 5.5 overs. Ayub struck a lively 24, while Farhan controlled the innings with a composed yet attacking 51 off 36 balls, ensuring there was no pressure despite a brief middle-order wobble.
Although Pakistan lost three wickets in quick succession near the hundred mark, the result was never in doubt. Shadab Khan capped off an all-round display with an unbeaten 18, guiding Pakistan home and earning the Player of the Match award for his contributions with both bat and ball.
Sri Lanka’s bowlers struggled to replicate Pakistan’s discipline, conceding early boundaries and failing to apply sustained pressure. With little scoreboard pressure, Pakistan batted with freedom, underlining the gulf between the two sides on the night.
The comprehensive victory gives Pakistan early momentum in the series, while Sri Lanka will need significant improvement, particularly with the bat, if they are to challenge a confident and well-balanced Pakistan side in the matches to come.
