In the concluding T20 International of the three‑match series in Rawalpindi, Sri Lanka overturned a modest target of 169 runs, achieving an eight‑wicket win largely due to captain kusal mendis’s unbeaten 87.
kusal mendis leads Sri Lanka to victory
Chasing 169, Sri Lanka accelerated to 172 for two within just 17.1 overs. After an early loss of Lahiru Udara for a single run, Kusal Mendis steadied the innings, forging a 59‑run partnership with Sineth Jayawardena, who added 38 runs off 26 balls.
Following Jayawardena’s dismissal, Mendis combined with Kamindu Mendis, delivering a seamless 98‑run unbeaten stand that sealed the chase. Kusal struck nine fours and four sixes in his 48‑ball effort, while Kamindu contributed an unbeaten 40 off 27 balls.
Key partnerships: kamindu mendis and dasun shanaka
Although Dasun Shanaka did not bat, his impact with the ball was significant, claiming three wickets for 21 runs. His performance complemented the batting heroics of Kusal and Kamindu, highlighting Sri Lanka’s all‑round effort.
Series context: pak vs sl t20
Pakistan had posted 168 for eight in their allotted 20 overs, with captain Sahibzada Farhan scoring a brisk 76 from 47 balls. Despite a middle‑order collapse to 102 for six, Farhan and Arafat Minhas added a crucial 66‑run partnership, allowing Pakistan to post a competitive total.
Pakistan secured the series 2‑1 after winning the first two matches at the same venue. The final win for Sri Lanka prevented a series whitewash and provided momentum heading into an upcoming ODI tri‑series featuring England, set to begin in Rawalpindi on October 18.
What’s next for both sides?
Both teams will shift focus to the ODI tri‑series, using the lessons from the T20 encounters to fine‑tune strategies. Sri Lanka will look to build on the confidence generated by Mendis’s innings, while Pakistan aims to translate their series win into consistent performances in the longer format.
Sources: The Times of India, Cricinfo, Cricbuzz.
