After taking an early 1-0 lead in the three-match series, Pakistan are gearing up to host Sri Lanka in the second ODI of the three-match series on Friday in Rawalpindi. Pakistan will enter the second game with confidence after securing a narrow six-run win in the series opener on Tuesday at the same venue. With the 1-0 advantage, Pakistan will be optimistic to turn the lead into an unassailable 2-0 gain on home soil.

The first ODI was a pulsating showdown with both teams producing shattering performances. Pakistan's middle order stood tall following early setbacks, while Sri Lanka fought hard until the very end. Salman Ali Agha's century was the cornerstone of Pakistan's innings after early wickets, anchoring the side to a respectable total of 299/5 in 50 overs with his 105 unbeaten. One more notable contribution for Pakistan came through Hussain Talat, who made a classy 62, giving much-needed stability.

Majorly for Pakistan, the spotlight will once again be on Babar Azam, whose deteriorating form has been the biggest talking point. His century drought has now stretched to 83 innings across formats. In the first game, Babar had a great start, but he failed to convert it into a big score, managing only 29 off 51.

For Sri Lanka, on the other hand, the loss will sting, as they came so close to chasing down a massive total. Wanindu Hasaranga was the standout performer for Sri Lanka both in the bowling department and batting department. With the ball, he returned with three wickets, while with the bat he slammed a knock of 59 off 52 balls that also included seven boundaries. Nonetheless, Sri Lanka will be aiming to bounce back and force a decider.

Head-to-head

Matches - 158

Pakistan won - 94

Sri Lanka won 59

No Result - 4

Tied - 1

Pakistan possible XI: Fakhar Zaman, Saim Ayub, Babar Azam, Mohammad Rizwan (wk), Salman Agha, Hussain Talat, Mohammad Nawaz, Faheem Ashraf, Shaheen Afridi (c), Haris Rauf, Naseem Shah

Sri Lanka possible XI: Pathum Nissanka, Kamil Mishara, Kusal Mendis (wk), Sadeera Samarawickrama, Charith Asalanka (c),Janith Liyanage, Kamindu Mendis, Wanindu Hasaranga, Dushmantha Chameera, Maheesh Theekshana, Asitha Fernando