Pakistan Thrashes Sri Lanka by 6 Wickets in Thrilling Match
Pakistan pulled off an incredible win by chasing down a record-breaking target of 345 runs set by Sri Lanka
HYDERABAD: In a fiercely contested match at the Cricket World Cup, Pakistan showcased their tenacity and skill by triumphing over Sri Lanka in an electrifying contest. Their remarkable performance was highlighted by successfully chasing down a colossal target of 345 runs, an unprecedented achievement in the history of the World Cup, reaching 348 runs in 48.2 overs.
While chasing the monumental target, Pakistan faced a rocky start, losing two crucial players early in the game with only 37 runs on the scoreboard. However, Abdullah Shafique's brilliant knock of 113 and Mohammad Rizwan's outstanding innings of 134 spearheaded Pakistan's charge to victory. Their exceptional batting display pressured the Sri Lankan bowlers, ultimately steering Pakistan towards a thrilling triumph. Sri Lanka's Dilshan Madushanka managed to take two wickets, and Maheesh Theekshana and Matheesha Pathirana grabbed one wicket each.
Earlier in the match, Sri Lanka had set an imposing target of 344 runs for Pakistan, courtesy of Kusal Mendis and Sakura Samarawickrama's splendid centuries. Mendis showcased an impressive display of batting, smashing 122 runs off just 77 balls, marking the fastest century by a Sri Lankan in the history of the World Cup. Additionally, Samarawickrama notched his maiden ODI century, contributing 108 runs from 89 balls and propelling Sri Lanka to their highest-ever World Cup score.
Mendis displayed dominance over the Pakistani bowlers, striking 14 fours and 6 sixes during his innings. He combined effectively with Pathum Nissanka (51) and Samarawickrama, forming crucial partnerships. After Mendis' departure, Samarawickrama maintained the momentum, displaying superb stroke play with 11 fours and two sixes.
Pakistan's Hassan Ali emerged as the most successful bowler, securing four wickets for 71 runs, while Haris Rauf made significant contributions with two wickets for 64 runs. Shaheen Shah Afridi and Shadab Khan also chipped in with one wicket each, although they were relatively expensive in terms of runs conceded.
Sri Lanka, having won the toss, opted to bat first but faced an early setback when Kusal Perera (0) lost his wicket in the second over, caught by wicketkeeper Mohammad Rizwan on Hasan Ali's delivery. Despite the initial setback, Nissanka and Mendis showcased resilience and capitalized on Pakistan's fast bowler Shaheen's struggle with line and length.
Furthermore, a concerning moment in the match arose when wicketkeeper-batsman Kusal Mendis was hospitalized due to concussion, leading to Dushan Hemantha taking his place in the field, whileSadeera Samarawickrama took on the role of wicketkeeper.