PAK vs SL: Pakistan produced a stunning bowling masterclass in the tri-series final against Sri Lanka on November 29, ripping through the Lankan batting lineup in a collapse that few saw coming. What looked like a promising innings for Sri Lanka quickly turned into a complete disaster, as they went from a comfortable 103/3 to 114 all out, losing 7-wickets for just 11 runs.
A Collapse No One Expected
Sri Lanka actually started well. Kamil Misara was holding things together brilliantly with a composed 59 off 47 balls, and at 103/3, they were eyeing a strong finish. But that’s when Pakistan’s bowlers turned the match on its head. One wicket opened the floodgates, and Sri Lanka simply couldn’t recover.
Pakistan’s Bowling Carnage
Shaheen Afridi and Mohammad Nawaz were the architects of the collapse. Shaheen, with his trademark swing and accuracy, picked up 3 wickets for just 18 runs in his three overs. Nawaz matched him, taking 3 wickets in four overs, squeezing the middle order and stopping any momentum Sri Lanka had.
Abrar Ahmed chipped in with two wickets, while Sam Ayub and Salman Mirza grabbed one each. Every bowler who came in made an impact, Pakistan didn’t allow a single partnership to breathe once the collapse began.
Also Read: IND vs SA 1st ODI: From Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma to…Top-5 batter to watch out in Ranchi
Sri Lanka Fold for 114
Apart from Misara’s fighting fifty, no other Sri Lankan batter looked settled. Pathum Nissanka (11 off 7) gave a brisk start. Kusal Mendis added 14 but couldn’t carry on. The rest? Ducks and single digits. Janith Liyanage, Dushmantha Chameera, and Ishan Malinga were all dismissed without scoring.
The entire innings ended at a modest 114, a total far below what Sri Lanka would’ve hoped for after their solid start.
Pakistan Need 115 to Lift the Trophy
With just 115 needed, Pakistan are in a strong position to clinch the tri-series title, which also featured Zimbabwe. If their batting holds firm, this game should be theirs comfortably.
Sri Lanka, meanwhile, will be left wondering how a promising innings turned into one of their most dramatic collapses in recent memory.
