Sri Lanka produced a dominant all-round performance to defeat Pakistan by eight wickets in the ODI tri-series on Tuesday, securing their place in the final and ending England’s hopes of qualification. After winning the toss and opting to field, Sri Lanka bowled Pakistan out for just 110, with fast bowler Dilshan Madushanka delivering a career-best performance of 5/34 in 8.3 overs, including a maiden. Sri Lanka then chased down the target in just 18.1 overs, finishing at 114/2 at the Gaddafi Stadium. Pakistan had already qualified for the final after winning their first three matches, while Sri Lanka’s victory confirmed an all-Asian final between the two sides.
Pakistan struggled from the outset as Madushanka dismantled their top order, claiming three wickets inside the first Powerplay and leaving the hosts with little chance of recovery. The rest of Sri Lanka’s bowling attack maintained the pressure, while sharp fielding further compounded Pakistan’s problems. Despite entering the match with their place in the final already secured, Pakistan failed to build meaningful partnerships and were dismissed for a modest total of 110. Madushanka was named Player of the Match for his outstanding bowling display, which proved decisive in setting up Sri Lanka’s comfortable victory.
In response, Sri Lanka made an aggressive start, with Kamindu Mendis leading the chase with an unbeaten 62 off 60 balls, including eight fours and two sixes. Avishka Fernando contributed 14 before being dismissed by Shaheen Afridi, while captain Kusal Mendis scored four before suffering an unusual dismissal, getting bowled after the ball deflected off his bat. Kamindu continued to attack despite the wickets, bringing up his first half-century of the tour after benefiting from an early dropped catch and a successful review. Pavan Rathnayake remained unbeaten as Sri Lanka completed the chase without further trouble. Pakistan finished the league stage with six points from three wins, while Sri Lanka moved to four points and will face England on Thursday, October 29, in their final round-robin fixture before meeting Pakistan again in Saturday’s final. England, led by Harry Brook, will now play for pride after failing to win a match on the tour.