Farhan anchored the pursuit with a commanding 89 off 53 deliveries, an innings highlighted by 10 fours and four sixes. He found a vital partner in Maaz Sadaqat, who scored a maiden T20I half-century, contributing 50 runs from just 29 balls. Their partnership of 92 runs off 53 balls proved the decisive factor in overcoming the Sri Lankan total.
A clinical chase in Rawalpindi
The foundation for the chase was laid early by Farhan and Fakhar Zaman, who combined for 54 runs in the opening 31 balls. After Zaman departed for 21, Sadaqat maintained the aggressive tempo, particularly against the pace of Eshan Malinga, whom he struck for two sixes and a four in a single over. Although Sadaqat was dismissed leg-before-wicket by Maheesh Theekshana shortly after reaching his milestone, his contribution had already shifted the momentum firmly in Pakistan's favour.
Sri Lanka attempted to claw their way back into the contest through Dushmantha Chameera, who reached the milestone of 100 T20 wickets by dismissing Hasan Nawaz, and Theekshana, who finished with figures of 2/36. Despite these breakthroughs, Farhan remained composed, launching a counterattack against Theekshana that included a six and three boundaries in one over. By the time Farhan was dismissed following a diving catch by Sahan Arachchige, Pakistan required only three runs to secure the win.
Udara’s effort in vain
Earlier in the day, Sri Lanka posted a competitive 182/8, largely driven by opener Lahiru Udara. Udara’s 91 off 55 balls—featuring 11 fours and a six—anchored the visitors' innings after they lost captain Kusal Mendis in the opening over to Naseem Shah. Naseem, returning to the squad, finished with 3/36, while debutant Mohammad Imran provided strong support with 2/21.
Udara shared a 60-run stand with Kamindu Mendis and a 57-run partnership with Dasun Shanaka to help Sri Lanka accelerate in the final stages, adding 66 runs in the last six overs. However, the total proved insufficient against the aggressive batting display from the Pakistan captain and his teammates. The series is set to continue in Rawalpindi with the second and third matches scheduled for Sunday and next Tuesday.
