Pakistan have secured a convincing eight-wicket victory over Sri Lanka in the second one-day international at Rawalpindi, clinching the three-match series with an unassailable 2-0 lead in a contest overshadowed by significant security concerns.
Heightened Security Amid Terror Threats
The match proceeded under extraordinary security measures after several Sri Lankan players expressed concerns about their safety following a suicide bombing in Islamabad earlier in the week. The incident prompted some members of the touring squad to request returning home on Wednesday, but Sri Lankan cricket authorities issued a firm directive for the team to remain in Pakistan.
In response to the security fears, Pakistan deployed army and paramilitary forces to protect the visiting team. Pakistan's Army Chief Asim Munir personally assured Sri Lankan Defence Minister Pramitha Bandara Tennakoon of the team's complete safety throughout their stay.
Clinical Chase Led by Babar's Brilliance
Chasing a target of 289 for victory on Friday, Pakistan demonstrated composure and class with captain Babar Azam scoring his 20th ODI century - his first in 84 international innings across all formats. The hosts comfortably reached their target with 10 balls to spare.
Pakistan's innings began aggressively with openers Saim Ayub (33) and Fakhar Zaman (78) punishing Sri Lanka's new-ball bowlers. After Ayub's dismissal, Azam joined Zaman at the crease and the pair built a substantial partnership, rotating strike effectively and capitalising on loose deliveries.
Sri Lanka's Innings: Promise Without Conversion
Earlier, after being sent in to bat, Sri Lanka showed early promise with their openers putting on a 51-run partnership before Pathum Nissanka was run out attempting an ambitious third run. The top order showed glimpses of form but failed to capitalise, with Sadeera Samarawickrama making 42 before being bowled by Haris Rauf.
The innings found stability through Janith Liyanage's composed 54 and Kamindu Mendis's 44, who combined for a crucial 73-run stand. Wanindu Hasaranga remained unbeaten on 37 towards the end of the innings. For Pakistan, Haris Rauf and Abrar Ahmed shared bowling honours with three wickets each.
When Zaman departed immediately after hitting a massive six, Mohammad Rizwan joined Azam and the pair put together an unbeaten 112-run partnership to guide Pakistan home. Rizwan brought up his half-century in the penultimate over before Azam fittingly hit the winning runs.
Series Conclusion and Looking Ahead
The final ODI will be played at the same Rawalpindi venue on Sunday, after which Pakistan will host a T20 tri-series involving Zimbabwe beginning Tuesday. The comprehensive victory provides Pakistan with positive momentum as they build towards future international commitments.
