RAWALPINDI – Pakistan were asked to ball first after Sri Lanka captain Dasun Shanaka won the toss ahead of their tri-nation Twenty20 clash at Pindi Cricket Stadium on Saturday.
“We also wanted to bat first.”
Pakistan skipper Salman Ali Agha said, as the hosts prepared to chase another victory.
Pakistan Eye Second Win
Pakistan comes into the match with momentum, having defeated Zimbabwe by five wickets in the tri-nation series opener earlier this week. Salman’s side will face Zimbabwe again on Sunday in their second round-robin encounter, hoping to maintain a perfect start in the tournament.
Sri Lanka Looks to Bounce Back
Sri Lanka, smarting from a 67-run defeat to Zimbabwe in their first tri-series game, will be eager to bounce back. Shanaka’s men struggled against an inspired Zimbabwean side, and the team will look to regroup in Rawalpindi.
Team Updates
Pakistan was without pace spearhead Shaheen Shah Afridi, who is under medical observation for a minor foot fascial injury. Mohammad Wasim Jr replaced Shaheen in the playing XI.
Pakistan XI: Saim Ayub, Sahibzada Farhan, Babar Azam, Salman Ali Agha (captain), Usman Khan, Fakhar Zaman, Mohammad Nawaz, Faheem Ashraf, Mohammad Wasim Jr, Salman Mirza, Abrar Ahmed.
Sri Lanka XI: Pathum Nissanka, Kusal Mendis, Kamil Mishara, Kusal Perera, Dasun Shanaka (captain), Janith Liyanage, Kamindu Mendis, Wanindu Hasaranga, Dushmantha Chameera, Vijayakanth Viyaskanth, Eshan Malinga.
Match Outlook
Pakistan’s captain emphasized the team’s aggressive approach, aiming to capitalize on early momentum. With a strong batting lineup and disciplined bowling attack, the hosts are favorites to dominate the match, while Sri Lanka will rely on Shanaka’s leadership and key performers like Wanindu Hasaranga to turn the tide.
