Sri Lanka level the series with Hasaranga’s performance

Sri Lanka clawed back in the three-match T20I series, securing a thrilling 14-run victory over Pakistan in a rain-affected third encounter at Dambulla on Sunday. The contest, shortened to 12 overs per side due to persistent showers, saw the home side successfully defend a competitive total of 160, largely thanks to a brilliant spell of 4-35 from Wanindu Hasaranga.

The match was delayed by over two hours as heavy rain swept through Dambulla. Upon winning the toss, Pakistan opted to field, handing Sri Lanka the first opportunity to post a challenging total. The innings proved a rollercoaster, with wickets and boundaries coming in quick succession.

Kamil Mishara got off to an explosive start, hitting three fours and a six, but he fell in the second over. Pathum Nissanka’s brief stay ended in a two-ball duck, while all-rounders Kusal Mendis, Dhananjaya de Silva, and Charith Asalanka made starts, each surpassing 20 before being dismissed.

The defining partnership came in the 10th over, when Dasun Shanaka and Janith Liyanage combined to add a rapid 52 runs off just 15 balls. The duo smashed six sixes and three boundaries, with Shanaka launching three consecutive sixes at the start of the final over before holing out off the fourth delivery. Liyanage struck a boundary off the last ball to ensure Sri Lanka reached 160/6.

Pakistan’s reply began with promise, though they lost Shahibzada Farhan early. Captain Salman Agha counterattacked from number three, scoring 22 runs each in the second and third overs. However, Sri Lanka regained control when Matheesha Pathirana claimed Agha at fine leg attempting a scoop. Hasaranga then struck twice in the subsequent over, removing Saim Ayub and Usman Khan.

A 49-run partnership between Khawaja Nafay and Mohammad Nawas kept Pakistan within reach, but Hasaranga returned in the 10th over to dismiss both, leaving Pakistan struggling. The final over required 20 runs, but a run-out of Faheem Ashraf and erratic wide deliveries from Ehsan Malinga left Pakistan 14 runs short.

Brief Scores:

The win levels the series 1-1, setting up an exciting decider that promises more high-octane cricket between the two sides. Hasaranga’s all-round brilliance once again proved decisive, underlining his status as one of Sri Lanka’s most impactful T20 players.