Tri-nation series: Sri Lanka beat Pakistan by six runs in tight Rawalpindi T20I clash

Sri Lanka edged Pakistan by six runs in a tight finish to the sixth match of the Pakistan T20I Tri-Series on Thursday, successfully defending 184 to secure an important win in Rawalpindi.

Sri Lanka’s innings was powered by a fluent 76 off 48 balls from Kamil Mishara, who struck six fours and three sixes to anchor the top order.

Kusal Mendis added a brisk 40 off 23 deliveries, helping Sri Lanka reach 184-5 despite disciplined spells from Abrar Ahmed, who claimed 2-28, and Salman Mirza, who picked up one wicket.

Pakistan’s chase began shakily, losing Sahibzada Farhan and Babar Azam in quick succession to fast bowler Dushmantha Chameera, who proved decisive with figures of 4-20. Saim Ayub contributed 27 off 18 balls, but Pakistan slipped to 43-4 inside the first six overs, leaving a steep task ahead.

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Captain Salman Agha held the innings together with an impressive unbeaten 63 from 44 deliveries, hitting four fours and three sixes to keep his side in contention. Usman Khan added 33 off 23, while Mohammad Nawaz’s late 27 off 16 revived Pakistan’s hopes.

However, Sri Lanka continued to strike at crucial stages, with Eshan Malinga taking two key wickets to apply pressure in the death overs.

Pakistan entered the final over needing 16, but Chameera removed Faheem Ashraf to seal the result as the hosts finished on 178-7.

The win strengthens Sri Lanka’s position in the tri-series, while Pakistan will look to address their top-order collapses ahead of the next fixture.