The T20I Tri-Series in Pakistan has reached its climax, with hosts Pakistan set to face Sri Lanka in the final on Saturday at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium. The stage is now set for a high-pressure encounter, with Sri Lanka finding the momentum at the right time. Pakistan were the first team to storm into the final following three consecutive wins in the early stages of the tournament. However, their smooth run hit a bump when Sri Lanka handed them a sobering defeat in the final group-stage match.
Despite the loss, Pakistan had reason to feel optimistic. Captain Salman Agha, who had been quiet throughout the campaign, finally returned to form with a much-needed innings, scoring 63 unbeaten. Sahibzada Farhan has been the most consistent of Pakistan’s top order, notching up two composed half-centuries. Babar Azam, who has been quiet, will be expected to strike form.
Sri Lanka’s path to the final has been far more turbulent. Dasun Shanaka’s men opened their campaign with two consecutive defeats, including a stunning upset at the hands of Zimbabwe, which left their hopes hanging by a thread. But Sri Lankan fought back with grit and resilience. Their revival peaked with a statement victory over Pakistan, where they defended a formidable 184 to march into the final. However, the final will demand a collective effort from Sri Lanka to come out victorious.
Head-to-head
Matches - 26
PAK won - 15
SL won - 11
Pakistan likely XI: Sahibzada Farhan, Saim Ayub, Babar Azam, Salman Ali Agha (c), Fakhar Zaman, Usman Khan (wk), Mohammad Nawaz, Faheem Ashraf, Mohammad Wasim, Salman Mirza, Abrar Ahmed
Sri Lanka likely XI: Pathum Nissanka, Kusal Mendis (wk), Kamil Mishara, Kusal Perera, Janith Liyanage, Dasun Shanaka (c), Pavan Ratnayake, Wanindu Hasaranga, Dushmantha Chameera, Maheesh Theekshana, Eshan Malinga