The comprehensive result leaves visiting captain Harry Brook and his team searching for urgent answers after their batting order suffered a dramatic and catastrophic collapse during the run chase. Chasing a target of 303, the tourists appeared entirely secure and well-positioned before losing their final seven wickets for just 50 runs to be bowled out for 215 in 38.4 overs.

England had begun their reply with supreme confidence and excellent control through a fluent opening partnership of 91 runs inside the first 15 overs. Opening batsmen Ben Duckett and Tom Banton set a brisk, commanding tempo against the Pakistan pace attack before the entire momentum of the contest shifted dramatically.

Ben Duckett eventually fell for a 46-ball 45 when he was bounced out by fast bowler Haris Rauf, sparking the initial opening breakthrough for the hosts. Tom Banton continued his fine run of form to post 57 from 53 deliveries, notching his third successive fifty-plus score at the top of the order after replacing the injured Jacob Bethell.

However, Banton's dismissal to Arafat Minhas triggered a major, irreversible middle-order wobble for the touring side under lights. Captain Harry Brook was subsequently bowled for just five runs by a sharp delivery from Arafat that gripped and straightened off the pitch to beat his defensive stroke.

Joe Root and all-rounder Sam Curran attempted to steady the faltering innings through a patient, rebuilding partnership of 31 runs for the fourth wicket from 57 deliveries. That resistance ultimately ended when Root was bowled by a low-keeping delivery from Naseem Shah after contributing 33 runs from 35 balls.

Sam Curran, returning to international action after recovering from a groin injury sustained during The Hundred in August, made 27 from 39 balls before holing out to deep backward square leg. The lower order then disintegrated rapidly under sustained pressure from the aggressive Pakistan bowling attack.

Arafat Minhas ran ruthlessly through the tail to finish with remarkable bowling figures of 6-40 from his allotment. The young spinner stood on the verge of a hat-trick late in the innings and ultimately sealed the victory by running out Gus Atkinson during a chaotic passage of play.

Commentator Stuart Broad described one dismissal during the collapse as an appalling effort, highlighting the psychological pressure exerted by the home bowlers. Arafat's involvement in each of the final five wickets underscored a truly unforgettable individual display on home soil.

Earlier in the day, Pakistan had won the toss and elected to bat first on a surface that offered assistance to both batsmen and seamers. The hosts experienced immediate trouble when opening batsman Fakhar Zaman fell to the very first ball of the match without scoring a run.

Seamer Gus Atkinson removed Fakhar caught low at midwicket by Joe Root, while his opening partner Saim Ayub was bounced out by Sonny Baker for eight after being starved of the strike. Experienced star Babar Azam contributed 34 runs before being bowled playing back to off-spinner Will Jacks as Pakistan slipped into early trouble at 81-4.

Leg-spinner Adil Rashid, returning from a hand injury that sidelined him during the recent series against Sri Lanka, claimed a wicket when Salman Ali Agha fell for a catch. Pakistan found themselves in a precarious position before a substantial and aggressive lower-order recovery altered the complexion of the innings.

Hasan Nawaz led the resistance with a dynamic and powerful innings of 79 runs from 74 balls. He pumped his very first ball from Adil Rashid for six amid nine boundaries all told during his second ODI fifty, lifting the hosts from their early struggles.

Hasan shared crucial fifty-run partnerships with the middle and lower order, anchoring the innings superbly. Arafat Minhas complemented his eventual bowling heroics with a vital, fluent knock of 59 runs from 58 balls to frustrate the visiting attack.

A rapid and destructive alliance of 72 runs from just 49 deliveries between Arafat and Faheem Ashraf propelled Pakistan past the 300-run mark. Faheem Ashraf contributed an unbeaten 39 from 26 balls, while Saad Baig added 35 runs to the total during a productive phase.

Pakistan eventually finished their allotted 50 overs at 302-9, having collected an impressive 80 runs from the final eight overs of their innings. England conceded heavily in the death overs and struggled to contain the late surge from the home side's lower-order hitters.

England's fielding performance compounded their difficulties in the field, with three crucial catches dropped during the innings. Stand-in wicketkeeper Jordan Cox, deputising for the injured Jos Buttler who was sidelined with a hamstring issue, and bowler Gus Atkinson were directly involved in the fielding lapses.

Sonny Baker was the pick of the England fast bowlers with figures of 3-65 from his spell, while Gus Atkinson claimed 2-35. However, the wider bowling attack proved expensive in the latter stages of the Pakistan innings as the momentum swung decisively toward the hosts.

The ongoing tri-series features Pakistan, England, and Sri Lanka playing each other twice in a double-round-robin format across the country. Pakistan previously defeated Sri Lanka by 37 runs in the opening fixture of the tournament on Sunday in Rawalpindi.

England will return to the Rawalpindi venue on Thursday to face Sri Lanka in their second fixture of the competition, hoping to bounce back quickly. The top two teams from the preliminary group standings will advance to the final scheduled in Lahore on October 31.

The series forms part of an intensive period of white-ball cricket for the England team under their current coaching and leadership setup. Following the conclusion of matches in Pakistan, the squad is scheduled to travel directly to Australia in November for three ODIs and five T20 fixtures.

The anticipated encounter is scheduled to take place at the Shoaib Akhtar Cricket Stadium in Rawalpindi, marking a significant development for the experienced wicket-keeper batsman following a period of uncertainty regarding his playing career.

Sources close to the player indicated that Rizwan has received clearance from the Pakistan Cricket Board to feature in domestic competitions once again, although an SNGPL team source noted that official confirmation would arrive on matchday.

Meanwhile, Pakistan Cricket Board officials have remained tight-lipped regarding the administrative clearance when approached by media representatives, maintaining discretion over the fast-moving developments surrounding the former skipper's availability.

Rizwan's potential return comes at a crucial juncture in the domestic first-class season, with the tournament rapidly approaching its final stages and teams jostling for vital positions in the standings ahead of the conclusion.

His side, Sui Northern Gas Pipelines Limited, currently finds themselves languishing at the bottom of the tournament table and standing precariously on the brink of relegation from the prestigious first-class competition.

The introduction of a player of Rizwan's caliber and leadership experience could provide a much-needed morale and tactical boost for the struggling SNGPL squad as they attempt to salvage their campaign in Rawalpindi.

Despite facing a turbulent period away from the competitive game, the seasoned campaigner has maintained an rigorous physical regimen, continuing to train diligently in Peshawar to ensure he remains in top physical condition.

A source close to the cricketer revealed that he never interrupted his practice routines, visiting the local ground twice a day to hone his skills and maintain match sharpness throughout the prolonged off-field uncertainty.

The source expressed confidence in his impending arrival in Rawalpindi, stating that he is fully prepared to take charge of the team and contribute immediately on the field of play against Khan Research Laboratories.

The hurdles in Rizwan's career path emerged following Pakistan's heavy defeat against England at Lord's earlier, after which he was notably among seven players sent home from the national squad setup.

Following that tour, the National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency initiated an inquiry concerning the cricketer regarding alleged involvement in online betting activities, creating a cloud of doubt over his immediate professional future.

In response to the developments, Rizwan challenged the ongoing legal proceedings by filing a petition in the Lahore High Court, seeking judicial intervention to protect his reputation and career interests.

The Lahore High Court subsequently dismissed his petition while simultaneously advising the prominent cricketer to fully cooperate with the ongoing investigations conducted by the National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency.

Additionally, the court issued explicit directives instructing the National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency to refrain from harassing the international sportsman during the course of their formal inquiries and procedural investigations.

Alongside fellow batsman Imam-ul-Haq, Rizwan had initially been barred from participating in first-class cricket fixtures while the authorities continued their wide-ranging investigations into the matter.

The potential return of the experienced campaigner signals a possible turning point in the administrative standoff, allowing the talented wicket-keeper to refocus his energies on the red-ball domestic circuit.

Sui Northern Gas Pipelines Limited will heavily rely on his leadership qualities and batting prowess to navigate the challenging fixture against Khan Research Laboratories and escape the relegation zone.

Cricket enthusiasts and analysts will be closely monitoring proceedings at the Shoaib Akhtar Cricket Stadium on Monday to see whether the former national team captain takes the field as expected.

The resolution of this domestic eligibility question could pave the way for a broader rehabilitation of senior players affected by recent disciplinary and investigative actions within Pakistan's domestic cricket structure.

Additional background details underline the significance of the President's Trophy Grade-I tournament, which serves as a premier platform for top-tier red-ball talent across Pakistan to showcase their capabilities.

As SNGPL fights desperately to avoid the drop, the inclusion of an experienced international figure like Rizwan injects vital leadership into a dressing room currently dealing with immense pressure on the points table.

Club and departmental sides competing in the domestic circuit place high value on seasoned performers, making Rizwan's potential presence on the field a major talking point throughout the Pakistani cricketing landscape.

Observers note that the ongoing domestic season has featured intense competition across various venues, heightening the stakes for every participating team as the final rounds of fixtures draw closer to completion.

The tri-series is set to commence at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium, with Pakistan scheduled to face Sri Lanka in the opening encounter on Sunday. The competition will follow a double league round-robin format, with the top two teams advancing to the final on 31 October.

Speaking to reporters at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium on Friday, Fakhar highlighted that the team has been working on specific strategic plans for the series. While some details remain confidential, the primary objective is to regain momentum in the 50-over format following a lengthy break.

“There are a lot of plans regarding the tri-series, some of which you cannot make public,” Fakhar stated. “We are very hopeful and excited. The way we are preparing, we have all the plans for the World Cup in the back of our minds.”

The Pakistan squad features a blend of experienced campaigners and emerging talent. Alongside Fakhar, the team includes stalwarts such as Babar Azam, Salman Ali Agha, and captain Shaheen Shah Afridi, who will lead the side throughout the duration of the tournament.

Younger players looking to cement their positions in the international setup include Saim Ayub, Hasan Nawaz, and wicket-keeper Saad Baig. The integration of these players is a priority for the management as they look to build a settled unit for future global challenges.

Fakhar, who holds the distinction of being Pakistan’s only double-centurion in men’s ODIs, noted that the squad’s recent involvement in first-class cricket has been beneficial. He believes the rhythm gained from the longer format will assist players in adapting to the demands of 50-over cricket.

“The best thing about the combination is that all the boys are coming after playing the first-class season. So everyone is in rhythm and is coming after playing a long format of cricket,” the left-handed opener explained during the press briefing.

He further suggested that the transition from first-class cricket to the 50-over format is more natural than moving from T20 cricket. The players’ familiarity with longer spells and extended periods in the field is expected to serve them well during the tri-series.

Pakistan’s bowling unit has also received praise from the opener, who noted encouraging signs during recent training sessions. The team is determined to establish a consistent bowling combination that can perform under the pressure of a major tournament environment.

The team’s recent ODI record provides a measure of optimism for the coaching staff. Pakistan secured a 3-0 series sweep against Sri Lanka in November 2025 and claimed 2-1 series victories over South Africa and Australia in home conditions earlier this year.

Despite these successes, the team faced a setback in March 2026, suffering a 2-1 series defeat away to Bangladesh. Addressing the fluctuations in form, Fakhar acknowledged that criticism is an inherent aspect of professional sport when results do not meet expectations.

“When you perform, you get appreciation from fans. When you don't do well, then it is natural that things don't feel good,” he remarked. “Every person, senior and junior, tries to do their best and improve in their profession.”

The squad is acutely aware of the long wait for a major global trophy. Fakhar stressed that while reaching semi-finals and finals is an achievement, the ultimate goal remains securing a title to bring happiness to the nation.

“We are excited right now, and we definitely have this thought in the back of our minds that it has been a long time since we won a big event,” he added. “The happiness that you get as a nation after winning the trophy is something you don't get elsewhere.”

England arrived in Pakistan on Friday and are scheduled to begin their preparations on Saturday. Meanwhile, Pakistan and Sri Lanka have been training in Rawalpindi since Thursday to ensure they are match-ready for the opening fixture.

The Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium is expected to see significant attendance, with Fakhar noting that the interest in the series is reflected in the high demand for tickets. The players are eager to reward the home supporters with strong performances.

As the tournament progresses, the focus will remain on identifying the ideal balance for the 2027 World Cup. The coaching staff will likely rotate the squad to test different combinations, ensuring that all players are prepared for the challenges of the global event.

The tri-series serves as a vital indicator of Pakistan’s current standing in the ODI format. With the final scheduled for the end of the month, the team has a clear window to refine their tactics and build the necessary confidence for the road ahead.

Fans and analysts will be closely watching the performances of both the senior leaders and the younger prospects. The coming weeks in Rawalpindi are set to be a defining period for Pakistan’s preparations for the 2027 ODI World Cup.

The International Cricket Council confirmed the squad selection as England prepare for the multi-nation tournament. The tri-series serves as an important developmental stepping stone and competitive preparation ahead of the upcoming ICC Men's Cricket World Cup scheduled for 2027.

Crane made his senior international debut back in 2017 and early 2018, featuring in three matches across formats for his country. His most recent outing prior to this recall came during the final Test of the 2017-18 Ashes tour played at the Sydney Cricket Ground.

During that Sydney Test appearance, the young spinner claimed his maiden Test wicket by dismissing Australian batsman Usman Khawaja. Khawaja had already compiled a formidable score of 171 runs before falling to the visiting slow bowler during a difficult campaign.

In addition to his solitary Test appearance, the Hampshire-linked spinner also featured in two Twenty20 International fixtures against South Africa. His lone wicket in the shortest international format was the prized scalp of Proteas batting legend AB de Villiers.

Reflecting on his unexpected return to the national setup, Crane admitted that he had previously given up hope of representing his country again. Speaking candidly to the Sky Sports Cricket Podcast, he described the selection call as completely out of the blue.

The player confessed that there was a period during his career when he became resigned to missing out on future international honours. He noted that placing excessive pressure on himself had previously eroded his enjoyment of the game.

However, a renewed mental approach over the past couple of seasons helped him rediscover his competitive spark and ambition. This fresh perspective has coincided with a notable upturn in his performances across the domestic English county circuit.

During the 2026 domestic season, Crane produced impressive figures in red-ball and white-ball cricket alike. He captured 34 wickets across 14 County Championship matches, demonstrating admirable consistency and endurance over longer spells.

He also made significant contributions in the Vitality Blast competition, adding another 15 wickets in 10 appearances for his side. These strong domestic returns ultimately caught the attention of the England selection panel ahead of the demanding overseas assignment.

Aside from raw wicket-taking numbers, Crane has worked diligently to evolve his technical craft as a leg-spinner. He expressed a strong desire to avoid being labelled as a bowler who relies solely on occasional moments of brilliance.

Instead, the experienced spinner prides himself on adapting intelligently to different match situations and surfaces. His primary focus centres on outwitting specific batsmen through careful tactical planning and variation.

The 2026 version of the bowler features an expanded repertoire of deliveries executed with greater control and confidence. By adding multiple strategic variations to his bowling arsenal, he has successfully strengthened his overall value to the team.

England's upcoming campaign in Pakistan gets underway on October 20 when they face the hosts in Rawalpindi. The opening match of the tri-series actually takes place two days earlier between Pakistan and Sri Lanka at the same venue.

Following the initial fixtures in Rawalpindi, the tri-series moves to Lahore for the remaining round-robin matches and the tournament final. The schedule sees England play Pakistan on October 25 in Lahore before concluding their group fixtures against Sri Lanka on October 29.

The top two performing teams from the round-robin stage will contest the tri-series final on October 31 in Lahore. This competitive block of fixtures provides all three participating nations with valuable match practice in subcontinental conditions.

With international cricket returning to Pakistan on a regular basis, visiting sides continue to test their squad depth in familiar conditions. England will be keen to integrate returning players like Crane effectively as they build towards global tournament success.

The broader context of international cricket highlights how perseverance in domestic competitions can eventually yield rewards. For Crane, the journey from his difficult Ashes introduction in Sydney to this latest recall underlines the value of sustained hard work.

Ticket sales and public interest are already ramping up as fans prepare for the tri-series encounters. The ICC continues to coordinate registration for ticketing ballots ahead of the main global tournament in 2027.

Supporters across the participating nations will watch closely to see how Crane performs upon his long-awaited return. His inclusion adds an intriguing narrative element to what promises to be a fiercely contested multi-nation series in Pakistan.

As the touring party finalizes their preparations before departing for South Asia, every training session carries immense significance. Management will evaluate player readiness across both formats to ensure optimal balance throughout the demanding fixture list ahead.

The tournament is scheduled to run from October 18 to 31, providing home fans with weeks of high-level international cricket. Matches will follow a double round-robin format before the top two teams battle for the trophy.

Rawalpindi will host the opening three fixtures of the competition. The action will then shift to Lahore for the remaining four matches, culminating in the grand finale at the Gaddafi Stadium on October 31.

Pakistan enter the multi-nation tournament shortly after completing a home T20I series against Sri Lanka. The hosts secured a 2-1 victory in that short format before dropping the final encounter.

Sri Lanka avoided a series whitewash by claiming victory in the third T20I in Rawalpindi on Tuesday night. That result gave the visiting side a timely boost of confidence ahead of the longer format fixtures.

Pakistan have named a 16-player squad for the tri-series, retaining nine players who featured in the recent T20 matches. Pace spearhead Shaheen Shah Afridi will captain the side throughout the campaign.

The squad also features senior batters such as Babar Azam and Fakhar Zaman, alongside all-rounder Salman Ali Agha. Other notable inclusions are wicketkeepers Saad Baig and Muhammad Ghazi Ghori.

The bowling department boasts considerable depth with fast bowlers Haris Rauf and Naseem Shah. Spin options include Abrar Ahmed, Shadab Khan, Sufiyan Moqim, and Arafat Minhas.

Hesson acknowledged that the squad features a different blend of players compared to the T20 setup. He expressed excitement about working with a group possessing more experience in specific tactical areas.

Reflecting on the team's trajectory, the head coach noted that the 50-over side has made noticeable progress over the past six months. He emphasized the necessity of sustaining that upward curve against elite opposition.

Hesson specifically highlighted the calibre of the opposing teams participating in the tournament. He pointed out that Sri Lanka gained significant momentum from their recent victory, while England arrive as the top-ranked side globally.

"Well, look, a different group of players. You know, some slightly more experience in certain areas. But look, I'm excited," Hesson told reporters following the conclusion of the T20I series.

"I mean, our one-day side made some good progress in the last six months. We've got to continue that," the coach added regarding the team's readiness for the upcoming matches.

Discussing the global standing of their opponents, Hesson noted the formidable nature of the challenge. "Certainly against the Sri Lankan side, who would have got some confidence tonight, and obviously an England side who's currently number one in the world."

"So it's going to be a tough tri-series, one we're looking forward to," Hesson concluded, setting a positive tone for his players ahead of the opening fixture.

Pakistan's recent form in the 50-over format has experienced various fluctuations across different series. In November 2025, the team secured a dominant 3-0 home sweep against Sri Lanka.

Continuing their home success later that same month, Pakistan defeated South Africa 2-1 in a hard-fought series. However, their fortunes dipped during an away assignment in March 2026.

Playing away from home against Bangladesh, Pakistan suffered a 2-1 series defeat. They managed a swift recovery during May and June 2026, overcoming Australia 2-1 on home pitches.

England enter the tri-series on the back of an impressive sequence of series victories. The visitors have claimed their last three ODI assignments, defeating Sri Lanka and India at home alongside an away series win in Sri Lanka.

Conversely, Sri Lanka have experienced a challenging period in the format. The island nation has suffered defeats in three of their last four bilateral ODI series prior to this tournament.

Pakistan's squad was scheduled to assemble in Islamabad on Wednesday to begin preparations. Attention will undoubtedly focus on how the team adapts to the demands of a double round-robin schedule.

Particular intrigue surrounds young fast bowler Razaullah, who earned a call-up after featuring in two T20Is against Sri Lanka. The coaching staff plans to work closely on his consistency and discipline.

Hesson praised the raw attributes of the fast bowler, noting his genuine pace. Even experienced batsmen like Kusal Mendis struggled against his speed during the recent matches.

"I think, you know, when I think of Pakistan cricket, I think of pace and I think of unusual actions," Hesson remarked regarding the emergence of the young quick.

"And, you know, he's fresh, and he's raw, but he's got genuine pace. And even Kusal Mendis, who plays pace well, got done for pace on a few occasions," the coach observed.

Hesson believes the fast bowler will improve significantly with sustained opportunities at the international level. He highlighted the presence of bowling coach Shaun Tait as a vital asset for the youngster's development.

"We've got Shaun Tait now, a chance for someone with, obviously a similar action to be able to work with him," Hesson explained. The mentorship aims to help Razaullah refine his lengths and master executing bouncers and yorkers.

The full Pakistan ODI squad comprises Shaheen Shah Afridi as captain, alongside Abrar Ahmed, Salman Ali Agha, Arafat Minhas, Babar Azam, Faheem Ashraf, and Fakhar Zaman.

The selection is rounded out by Muhammad Ghazi Ghori, Haris Rauf, Hasan Nawaz, Naseem Shah, Razaullah, Saad Baig, Saim Ayub, Shadab Khan, and Sufiyan Moqim.

With preparations underway in Islamabad, the team aims to harness their home advantage against two world-class competitors. The opening matches in Rawalpindi will provide the initial barometer for their readiness.

Newly appointed captain Sahibzada Farhan led his side from the front with a magnificent innings, laying the foundation for the successful run chase. He was ably supported by young left-hander Maaz Sadaqat, who registered his maiden half-century in international T20 cricket under pressure.

The partnership between Farhan and Sadaqat proved to be the decisive turning point of the match after Pakistan had lost an early wicket in the powerplay overs. Together, the pair compiled a vital 92-run stand for the second wicket to frustrate the visiting bowling attack.

Sri Lanka had earlier posted a competitive total of 182-8 in their allotted twenty overs after winning the toss and electing to bat first. Opening batsman Lahiru Udara anchored the innings with a brilliant, aggressive knock that kept the visitors in a strong position for long periods.

The visitors suffered an immediate setback at the very start of their innings when pace bowler Naseem Shah removed Sri Lankan captain Kusal Mendis for just one run in the opening over. Pakistan continued to exert early pressure when debutant Mohammad Imran Randhawa claimed the wicket of Kamil Mishara.

With Sri Lanka struggling at 18-2 in the fourth over, Lahiru Udara began the rebuilding process alongside Kamindu Mendis. The pair worked to steady the innings and repair the early damage inflicted by the lively Pakistani pace attack.

Kamindu Mendis contributed 23 runs from 18 deliveries, hitting four boundaries before becoming the third wicket to fall. Part-time spinner Saim Ayub made the breakthrough, dismissing Kamindu to leave the batting side at 78-3 in the middle overs.

Udara found another reliable partner in Sahan Arachchige, though the latter fell cheaply to the debutant Imran Randhawa for a single run. Despite wickets falling regularly at the other end, Udara maintained his aggressive momentum and brought up his half-century.

Dasun Shanaka injected fresh momentum into the innings with a brisk 18 runs from 15 balls, including two massive sixes. Shanaka and Udara shared a useful partnership that pushed the total past the 130-run mark before Shanaka was dismissed by leg-spinner Shadab Khan.

Lahiru Udara continued to find boundaries and rotate the strike effectively as the innings entered its closing stages. He survived a review from the fielding side earlier in his knock before eventually falling on the final ball of the nineteenth over.

Udara's outstanding innings ended at 91 runs from 55 balls, an aggressive knock that featured eleven boundaries and one six. His efforts ensured that Sri Lanka reached a challenging total of 182 for the loss of eight wickets after twenty overs.

Naseem Shah was the pick of the Pakistani bowlers, returning impressive figures of 3-36 from his full quota of four overs. Debutant Mohammad Imran Randhawa also made a strong impression by finishing with economical figures of 2-21.

Spinners Shadab Khan and Saim Ayub chipped in with one wicket each, conceding 33 and 17 runs respectively in their spells. The bowling unit worked collectively in the death overs to restrict what could have been an even larger total from the visitors.

Chasing 183, Pakistan made a fast start to their innings through openers Fakhar Zaman and captain Sahibzada Farhan. The pair brought up the team's fifty-run milestone in just five overs, putting the fielding side immediately on the back foot.

Medium-fast bowler Eshan Malinga provided the breakthrough for Sri Lanka by dismissing Fakhar Zaman for 21. Fakhar edged a delivery through to the wicketkeeper Lahiru Udara after striking four boundaries in his 13-ball stay.

Maaz Sadaqat walked to the crease following the dismissal and immediately stamped his authority on the match. In the same over, the young left-hander hit Eshan Malinga for two glorious sixes and a four, extracting 16 runs from it.

Farhan and Sadaqat consolidated the innings brilliantly through their substantial second-wicket partnership. They rotated the strike efficiently while punishing loose deliveries to keep the required run rate well within manageable control for the hosts.

Maaz Sadaqat reached his maiden T20 international half-century off just 28 deliveries, playing with remarkable composure. His gritty knock ultimately included three fours and four sixes before he eventually departed, having given his team the upper hand.

Skipper Sahibzada Farhan continued to bat with immense maturity and authority at the other end of the pitch. Playing his first international match as captain, he anchored the chase expertly and stood firm against the Sri Lankan bowling attack.

Farhan fell just short of a well-deserved century, dismissed after a magnificent knock of 89 runs from 54 balls. His captain's innings featured ten boundaries and four towering sixes, steering his side to the doorstep of victory.

Following Farhan's departure, Pakistan lost a few quick wickets as the visitors fought desperately to force a late collapse. However, the target was already within touching distance thanks to the substantial groundwork laid by the top order.

Khawaja Nafay ensured there would be no late drama by calmly finishing the game for the home side. He scored a brisk, unbeaten 12 runs from just seven deliveries, sealing the win with a decisive six.

Pakistan reached the target in 18.5 overs, losing six wickets in the process to triumph with seven balls to spare. Eshan Malinga and Maheesh Theekshana were the pick of the bowlers for Sri Lanka, claiming two wickets apiece.

The victory gives Pakistan a precious 1-0 advantage in the three-match series as preparations begin for the next fixture. Both teams will travel back to the same venue to contest the second match of the series on Sunday night.

Both squads will now review their performances from this opening encounter before returning to the Pindi Stadium. The hosts will look to seal the series, while Sri Lanka aim to force a deciding match in Rawalpindi.

Reports before the series said Sahibzada Farhan, who led the side at the Asian Games, was the likely captain. The same reports pointed to returns for Babar Azam, Naseem Shah, Fakhar Zaman and Shadab Khan, alongside several players from the Asian Games squad.

The T20Is lead into an ODI tri-series between Pakistan, England and Sri Lanka. Six round-robin matches are scheduled in Rawalpindi and Lahore from 18 October, with the final at Gaddafi Stadium on 31 October.

Pakistan then play two Tests in November, in Rawalpindi from 9 to 13 November and in Lahore from 17 to 21 November.