Rawalpindi, November 14, 2025: Janith Liyanage’s composed half-century, supported by important contributions from Kamindu Mendis and Sadeera Samarawickrama, helped Sri Lanka post 288-8 in the second ODI against Pakistan at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium on Friday, setting a target of 289 runs for the hosts.
After being asked to bat first, Sri Lanka began strongly, reaching 50 without loss in the first 10 overs, before Pakistan struck with a sharp runout to break the opening partnership. Pathum Nissanka (24) was the first wicket to fall, dismissed through brilliant fielding efforts by Naseem Shah and Mohammad Wasim Jr.
Leg-spinner Abrar Ahmed then removed Kamil Mishara (27) as Sri Lanka slumped to 62-2 in the 14th over. Kusal Mendis and Sadeera Samarawickrama added 28 runs for the third wicket before Abrar struck again, removing Mendis for 20 and skipper Charith Asalanka for six, leaving the visitors 98-4 in the 22nd over.
Samarawickrama (42) and Janith Liyanage (54) then rebuilt the innings with a 61-run partnership, steadying Sri Lanka. Liyanage’s resilience, alongside Kamindu Mendis (44), ensured the team reached a competitive total.
A late contribution came from Wanindu Hasaranga and Pramod Madushan, who added 44 runs for the ninth wicket, taking Sri Lanka to 288-8 in 50 overs.
For Pakistan, Abrar Ahmed led the bowling attack with 3 wickets for 41 runs, supported by Harif Rauf with 3-66, while Mohammad Wasim Jr also claimed a wicket.
Pakistan will now look to chase 289 runs in the second ODI to level the series, with the final match scheduled at the same venue on November 16.
