On Friday, November 14, 2025, Pakistan dismantled Sri Lanka by 8 wickets in a commanding performance at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium, sealing a 2-0 lead in their 3-match ODI series. The night match, which began at 14:30 local time, ended just before 22:15 — a masterclass in controlled aggression from Pakistan’s batting lineup and disciplined execution from their bowling unit. Captain Babar Azam, named Player of the Match, smashed a composed 102 off 119 balls, steering Pakistan to victory with 10 balls to spare. The win wasn’t just about runs — it was about timing, temperament, and tactical brilliance.
Strategic Toss and Sri Lanka’s Fractured Innings
Pakistan’s decision to field first looked risky on paper — but it became genius in practice. Sri Lanka, chasing momentum after a narrow win in the first ODI, stumbled through their innings despite a solid start. Their opening pair of Pathum Nissanka and Kamil Mishara put on 51, but Abrar Ahmed’s first spell shattered that rhythm. By the 10th over, Sri Lanka had lost their first wicket in the Powerplay, and the next 30 overs became a slow bleed of wickets and missed opportunities. The Rawalpindi ODI saw Sri Lanka post 288/8, but 20 extras — including 12 wides — exposed their lack of discipline. Janith Liyanage top-scored with 54, but his efforts were undermined by the absence of a true anchor. Wanindu Hasaranga’s unbeaten 37 offered little late resistance, and the 6th-wicket partnership with Liyanage (50 off 47 balls) came too late to salvage the innings.
Babar and Rizwan: The Unbreakable Core
When Pakistan stepped out to chase, the pressure was on — but not for long. Babar Azam, calm as ever, walked in with purpose. His 102 wasn’t just a century; it was a statement. He played with precision, rotating strike with surgical efficiency and punishing any loose ball. Mohammad Rizwan, his partner in crime, matched him with a blistering 51 off just 54 balls. Together, they put on an unbeaten 112-run stand in only 109 deliveries. By the 30th over, Pakistan had already reached 177/2 — a pace that had Sri Lanka’s bowlers visibly drained. The crowd, roaring from the first over, never let up. When Rizwan swept the final ball for four to seal the win, the stadium erupted — not just in celebration, but in recognition of a team playing at its peak.
Bowling That Broke the Back of Sri Lanka
While the batting stole headlines, Pakistan’s attack was the quiet architect of victory. Abrar Ahmed and Haris Rauf each claimed 3 wickets, turning the match’s momentum at critical junctures. Abrar, playing his first match after replacing the ill Shoaib Afridi, was the surprise weapon — his leg-spin spun the ball sharply and drew batsmen into false shots. Rauf’s pace and late swing kept Sri Lanka’s middle order pinned down. Dushmantha Chameera, Sri Lanka’s lone bright spot with 2/38, tried hard, but the lack of support from Pramod Madushan and the rest of the attack told the story. Sri Lanka’s bowlers conceded 20 extras — a damning statistic on a pitch that rewarded accuracy, not luck.
Captain’s Admission: Sri Lanka’s Crisis of Confidence
After the match, Sri Lanka captain Charith Asalanka didn’t shy away from blame. “We were short of the mark by 20-30 runs,” he said, his voice heavy with frustration. “The top order failed to deliver big hundreds — and our bowlers kept giving away wides. On a pitch like this, you can’t afford that.” His comments echoed a deeper issue: Sri Lanka’s inability to convert promising starts into match-winning totals. In both ODIs, they’ve posted totals above 280 — but never managed to defend them. The absence of a consistent No. 3 or a finisher has become a glaring weakness.
What This Means for Pakistan’s ODI Future
This series win isn’t just about two victories. It’s about momentum. Pakistan, who lost their last home ODI series to South Africa last year, have now won 5 of their last 6 home ODIs. Babar Azam’s leadership is evolving — he’s not just a batsman anymore, but a strategist who sets the tone. The inclusion of Abrar Ahmed and Mohammad Wasim has added depth, and the top order — Babar, Rizwan, and Saud Shakeel — is finally clicking in sync. With one match left, Pakistan have already secured the series, but the final game on November 16 at 9:30 am GMT will be about pride, polish, and proving they can close out a series with the same intensity they opened it with.
Behind the Scenes: Changes and Context
Team changes were minimal but impactful. Shoaib Afridi’s illness opened the door for Abrar Ahmed, who repaid the faith with 3/41. Sri Lanka’s Pramod Madushan was brought in to bolster their spin options, but his 4 overs went for 13 runs without a wicket. The Rawalpindi pitch, known for its true bounce and slow turn, favored batsmen — but only those who respected the line. Sri Lanka’s inability to adapt was their undoing. Pakistan, by contrast, had studied their last two matches here in 2023 and knew exactly how to play it.
What’s Next?
The final ODI on November 16 will be a formality — but don’t expect Pakistan to ease off. They’re building toward the 2026 ICC Champions Trophy, and every match is a rehearsal. Sri Lanka, meanwhile, face a tough tour ahead: two Tests in Pakistan, then a trip to New Zealand. Their batting order needs urgent surgery. For Pakistan, the message is clear: when Babar leads, they don’t just win — they dominate.
Frequently Asked Questions
How did Babar Azam’s century impact Pakistan’s series win?
Babar Azam’s 102 in the second ODI wasn’t just a personal milestone — it was the cornerstone of Pakistan’s 2-0 series lead. His ability to anchor the chase under pressure, combined with Rizwan’s acceleration, neutralized Sri Lanka’s bowling attack. This was his 28th ODI century, tying him with Younis Khan for most by a Pakistani captain, and his leadership in high-pressure chases has become a defining trait of this team’s identity.
Why did Sri Lanka struggle despite posting 288 runs?
Sri Lanka’s 288 looked competitive, but 20 extras — including 12 wides — made it far too expensive. Their top order failed to convert starts into big scores, and their middle order lacked aggression. Against Pakistan’s disciplined bowling, especially Abrar Ahmed’s spin, they couldn’t accelerate. In both matches, they’ve posted totals over 280 but lost by wide margins — a sign of poor execution under pressure.
What role did Abrar Ahmed play in Pakistan’s victory?
Abrar Ahmed, replacing the ill Shoaib Afridi, was the game-changer. His 3/41 in 10 overs broke Sri Lanka’s momentum after their strong start. His leg-spin induced false shots from middle-order batters like Sadeera Samarawickrama and Janith Liyanage. His inclusion gave Pakistan a spin option that complemented Rauf’s pace perfectly, and his performance signals a promising new era in Pakistan’s spin department.
How does this win affect Pakistan’s chances in the 2026 Champions Trophy?
This series win significantly boosts Pakistan’s confidence heading into the 2026 Champions Trophy. With a settled top order, a balanced bowling attack, and Babar Azam in peak form, they’ve shown they can dominate at home — a crucial trait in ICC tournaments. Their recent 5-of-6 home ODI wins suggest they’ve solved their consistency issues, making them serious contenders if they maintain this form abroad.
What’s the significance of the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium in this series?
The Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium has become Pakistan’s fortress in ODIs. It’s a pitch that rewards patience and precision — qualities Pakistan now excel in. Sri Lanka’s inability to adapt to its slow turn and consistent bounce exposed their technical shortcomings. Pakistan has won 4 of their last 5 ODIs here since 2021, making it a psychological advantage — and a key venue for building momentum ahead of major tournaments.
When is the final ODI, and what’s at stake?
The final ODI is scheduled for Sunday, November 16, 2025, at 9:30 am GMT. With the series already won, Pakistan will likely rest key players, giving fringe players like Mohammad Wasim and Salman Agha a chance to impress. For Sri Lanka, it’s about pride — and proving they can compete in a high-pressure chase. A win would prevent a clean sweep and give them a morale boost before their Test series.
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