Pakistan thrash Sri Lanka by 82 runs to clinch T20I series 2-0

Pakistan seal T20I series with 82-run win over Sri Lanka

Pakistan have taken an unassailable 2-0 lead in the three-match T20I series against Sri Lanka after a comprehensive 82-run victory in the second game. The third and final T20I will be played in Rawalpindi on Tuesday, October 13, starting at 1 pm GMT.

Maaz Sadaqat leads the way

Pakistan's innings was anchored by Maaz Sadaqat, whose 96 off 51 balls was the difference between a score of 190 and a final total of 215. He was named Player of the Match. Speaking afterwards, Maaz thanked the Almighty for his form and said he watches each delivery closely before selecting his shot rather than playing on instinct alone. He also credited skipper Sahibzada Farhan for constant discussion of pitch conditions and ball movement mid-over.

Farhan, captaining Pakistan in T20Is for the first time in this series, also made a half-century, setting the foundation at the top of the order. He said he had believed 200 was within reach and that the team's aggressive collective mindset allowed every batter to play freely. He expressed hope that Maaz's form would continue to rise.

Bowling turns the game

Sri Lanka chose to bowl first and started well, but after removing Fakhar Zaman they failed to build pressure. Salman Mirza picked up an early wicket, and a fiery spell from Mohammad Imran, who took three wickets, sealed the result for the hosts. Pakistan then managed the match well and won by a comfortable margin.

Sri Lanka's batting problems return

Sri Lanka had relied on a sensational knock from Lahiru Udara in their previous game, but he was dismissed early this time. Maheesh Theekshana top-scored with an unbeaten 32, while Sineth Jayawardena, Kamindu Mendis and Chamindu Wickramasinghe all made starts without converting them into substantial scores.

Captain Kusal Mendis admitted the batters must take responsibility, including himself, and said the pitch was very good to bat on. He felt the pacers did well in the Powerplay before the team dropped several catches, which cost them. Mendis said the bowlers did a decent job overall but must fix their middle-over problems, and that the fielding, usually a strength, had been below par in the last two games. He was confident the side would bounce back.

Looking ahead

Pakistan can complete a clean sweep in the final T20I in Rawalpindi on October 13. The series win gives a young and largely inexperienced side confidence ahead of the ODI tri-series that follows.