In the first game of the Pakistan ODI Tri-Series 2026–27 at Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium on October 18, 2026, Pakistan defeated Sri Lanka by 37 runs. Pakistan scored 305 runs during their innings thanks to Salman Agha’s powerful knock of 107 off 90 balls. Despite a strong middle-order effort, Sri Lanka, who were given a target of 306, were bowled out for 268 in 48.1 overs and were unable to finish the chase.
Pakistan defeated Sri Lanka by 37 runs
With less than a year until the 2027 ODI World Cup, the Men in Green will benefit greatly from the Shaheen Shah Afridi-led team’s winning start in the crucial series.
Salman Agha‘s century was the game’s pivotal moment. Pakistan was able to reach 305 thanks to his 107 off 90 balls, which ultimately proved to be too much for Sri Lanka. Eshan Malinga was the best bowler for Sri Lanka, taking four wickets for forty-six runs. Malinga made an effort, but Pakistan’s total remained steady during the pursuit.
The focal point of Pakistan’s batting performance that day was Salman Agha. His aggressive yet methodical knock of 107 off 90 balls gave the innings the momentum it needed to post a competitive score. Sri Lanka had to score 306 to win the game after Pakistan finished with 305.
Malinga’s 4 for 46 was the best bowling return of the game for both teams, but Pakistan was still able to reach a crucial total despite his four wickets. The total was significantly higher than what Sri Lanka’s bowlers could limit that day thanks to Pakistan’s batting depth and Agha’s anchor role.
In the middle overs, Sri Lanka’s chase had real potential. The visitors remained in contention thanks to a 119-run partnership between Pavan Rathnayake and Janith Liyanage at the fifth wicket. Together, Rathnayake and Liyanage scored 79 and 60 runs, respectively, giving Sri Lanka a realistic chance to complete the chase.
Also Read: Shafali Verma Sets Calendar-Year Fifty-Plus Record
However, Sri Lanka’s innings quickly collapsed after Liyanage was removed. The visitors finished their innings at 268 in 48.1 overs, 37 runs short of the target, after losing their final five wickets for just 15 runs.
The best bowler for Pakistan was Shaheen Afridi, who finished with figures of 3 for 55. His wickets at pivotal points hastened the late collapse and ensured Pakistan’s easy victory in the opening match of the tri-series. Pakistan now has a winning start to their remaining tournament matches thanks to the outcome.
