Sri Lanka defeated Pakistan by 6 runs in a thrilling contest at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium. Chasing a target of 185, Pakistan could score only 178 for 7 in the allotted 20 overs.

Captain Salman Ali Agha played a fighting knock of 63 from 44 balls, but even his innings could not guide Pakistan to victory. Usman Khan added 33, while Saim Ayub and Mohammad Nawaz scored 27 each.

Pakistan’s top order struggled badly. Sahibzada Farhan managed 9 runs, Faheem Ashraf 7, and Fakhar Zaman only 1. Star batter Babar Azam was dismissed for zero, walking back without scoring.

Sri Lanka’s bowling attack was the turning point. Dushmantha Chameera took 4 wickets with an outstanding spell, while Ishan Malinga picked up 2 and Wanindu Hasaranga claimed 1.

Earlier, batting first, Sri Lanka posted 184 for 5 in their 20 overs. Kamal Mishara smashed a powerful 76 off 48 balls with 3 sixes and 6 fours. Kusal Mendis contributed 40 off 23 balls, while Pathum Nissanka scored 8 and Kusal Perera managed 6.

For the visitors, Jeenath Liyanage scored 24, and captain Dasun Shanaka remained unbeaten on 17.

Pakistan’s bowling effort included two wickets from Abrar Ahmed, while Salman Mirza and Saim Ayub took one wicket each.

Pakistan had already qualified for the final earlier, but Sri Lanka’s win eliminated Zimbabwe from the race. The title match will now be played between Pakistan and Sri Lanka.

The Tri-Nation Series final is scheduled for November 29, Saturday, at 6 pm at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium.

Sri Lanka’s disciplined bowling exposed Pakistan’s fragile top order once again. Pakistan relied too heavily on middle-order rescue innings, which is not a sustainable strategy in pressure games. Sri Lanka’s aggressive batting set the tone early, giving them momentum throughout. The final will test Pakistan’s ability to settle nerves and avoid another collapse. Fans now expect stronger intent from Pakistan’s top order in the championship match.