Rawalpindi, October 11,2026: Pakistan will look to seal the three-match T20I series against Sri Lanka after securing a comprehensive four-wicket victory in the opening match, powered by captain Sahibzada Farhan’s scintillating 89 and Maaz Sadaqat’s maiden international half-century.
Speaking at the post-match press conference, top-order batter Maaz said he intended to continue backing his natural game and maintain the approach that had brought him success.
Pakistan chased down the 183-run target with seven balls to spare, although a late cluster of wickets added some pressure towards the end of the innings.
“It was my first 50, so I am very happy,” said Maaz, who struck a blistering 26-ball half-century in his first T20I appearance at number three.
“The plan for the upcoming matches is to play the way I have been playing and back it,” he added.
The series marks Farhan’s first home assignment as Pakistan captain. Its outcome could prove significant for a side undergoing a rebuilding phase, with senior players Babar Azam, Mohammad Rizwan and Shaheen Afridi currently absent from the squad.
The series also offers the team management and the new captain an opportunity to assess combinations and batting and bowling line-ups ahead of future assignments.
Farhan acknowledged the pressure that comes with representing Pakistan but expressed confidence in the squad.
“It would be a lie to say there is no pressure, because when you are representing your country, people have expectations from you,” he said.
“As a captain, I am very happy with this team. In T20s, I think three or four boys perform, and it is enough to turn the tables in a match,” he added.
Pakistan will now aim to carry the momentum into the second T20I and take an unassailable lead in the series.
