🎯 Match Summary

In the opener of their three-match ODI series played on 11 November 2025 at Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium, Pakistan edged past Sri Lanka by just six runs to take a 1-0 lead. NDTV Sports+2CricTracker+2

  • Batting first, Pakistan posted 299/5, largely thanks to a brilliant unbeaten 105 by Salman Ali Agha and a solid 62 from Hussain Talat. CricTracker+1

  • Sri Lanka’s chase was stout — led by Wanindu Hasaranga’s 59 off 52 balls — but they ultimately fell short at 293/9 in 50 overs. Outlook India+1

🔍 Key Turning Points

  1. Pakistan’s comeback after top-order collapse: When Pakistan were 95/4, the innings looked in trouble — but Salman’s century and Talat’s contribution propelled them into competitive territory. CricTracker

  2. Sri Lanka’s strong chase but poor finish: Hasaranga kept hopes alive, and Sri Lanka looked in the game deep into the 40s and 45-overs stage. But Pakistan’s death bowling held firm. LatestLY

  3. Home advantage for Pakistan: This win adds to Pakistan’s strong home record, especially at Rawalpindi—conditions well known to the hosts and challenging for visiting sides.

đź“Ś What It Means for the Series

  • Pakistan now lead the series 1-0, putting pressure on Sri Lanka to respond in the next game. CricTracker

  • Sri Lanka will be disappointed: the batting showed fight but lacked killer instinct in the final overs.

  • Pakistan will take confidence from pulling through under pressure, and their ability to defend a big total despite early hiccups.

đź“Š Player Highlights

  • Salman Ali Agha: A standout innings under pressure. His century came at strike rate ~120, crucial for setting up a defendable total.

  • Hussain Talat: Provided the platform and then the acceleration — his 62 added real value.

  • Wanindu Hasaranga: Despite the loss, his 59 gave Sri Lanka hope and reminded how dangerous he is as a batsman and a bowler.

🧭 Looking Ahead

The next ODI becomes pivotal:

  • Sri Lanka must win to stay alive in the series.

  • Pakistan will attempt to apply scoreboard pressure and use home conditions to their advantage.

  • Momentum, especially in bilateral series, often hinges on small moments — death overs, partnerships, fielding lapses.

đź“Ś Broader Context

This series comes at a time when both teams are trying to build momentum ahead of major events — Sri Lanka to regain consistency, Pakistan to reinforce home strength. An earlier clash in the 2025 Asia Cup saw Pakistan defeat Sri Lanka by five wickets in the Super 4 stage, showing the rivalry is hot and competitive. Outlook India+1

âś… Final Word

The Pakistan vs Sri Lanka contest is one where pressure, momentum and execution matter deeply. Pakistan held their nerve today and deserved the win, but Sri Lanka showed plenty of fight and will be dangerous if they get going.
As the series progresses, keep an eye on:

  • Pakistan’s ability to maintain consistency

  • Sri Lanka’s middle-order output and finishing power

  • How death bowling and fielding turn the match in crunch moments