Pakistan defeated Sri Lanka by four wickets in the first T20I to take a 1-0 lead in the three-match series. Sahibzada Farhan marked his elevation to Pakistan’s captaincy with a match-winning half-century, guiding his team to the target of 183 runs in 18.5 overs. Farhan scored 52 runs off 29 balls, including 10 fours and four sixes, as Pakistan finished at 187/6. The remaining two matches of the series are scheduled to be played in Rawalpindi on Sunday and next Tuesday.
Earlier, Sri Lanka posted a competitive total of 182/8, with opener Lahiru Udara leading the batting effort. Udara completed his half-century off just 32 balls and provided his team with a solid start before being caught in the deep during the final overs. Pakistan made an aggressive start to the chase during the powerplay, with Farhan and Fakhar Zaman combining for 54 runs off 31 balls. Their attacking approach put pressure on the Sri Lankan bowlers and helped Pakistan maintain a strong scoring rate. Sadaqat continued the momentum by completing his maiden T20I half-century off just 29 balls. However, he was dismissed on the very next delivery by Maheesh Theekshana, who finished with figures of 2/36.
Sri Lanka briefly fought back through their bowling attack. Dushmantha Chameera claimed his 100th T20 wicket by having Hasan Nawaz caught behind down the leg side. Theekshana then clean-bowled Saim Ayub for eight runs with a delivery that kept low. Despite the late pressure, Pakistan held their nerve to complete the chase in 18.5 overs, securing a four-wicket victory and taking the lead in the series. The teams will now return to Rawalpindi for the second T20I on Sunday, with the third match scheduled for next Tuesday.