Sun Nov 16 20:18:00 UTC 2025: Pakistan Sweeps Sri Lanka in ODI Series Amid Security Concerns

Rawalpindi, Pakistan – November 17, 2025 – Pakistan completed a dominant 3-0 series sweep against Sri Lanka in the final One Day International (ODI) held in Rawalpindi on November 16, securing a comfortable six-wicket victory. Mohammad Rizwan’s unbeaten 61 and Fakhar Zaman’s 55 led Pakistan’s chase of 212, reaching the target in 44.4 overs.

Sri Lanka, after winning the toss and electing to field, were bowled out for 211 in 45.2 overs. While they had promising starts from several batsmen, none managed to convert them into substantial scores. Pakistan’s bowling attack, led by Mohammad Wasim (3-47) and Haris Rauf (2-38), consistently pegged back the Sri Lankan innings.

The series win was particularly significant for Pakistan captain Shaheen Shah Afridi, who returned to lead the side after missing the second match due to illness. “Winning the series 3-0 is always good,” Afridi said, praising the contributions of senior players like Babar Azam and Rizwan.

Despite the comfortable victory, the series was overshadowed by security concerns after a suicide bombing in Islamabad earlier in the week. Sri Lanka Cricket initially considered withdrawing the team, but ultimately decided to continue after receiving assurances from the Pakistan Cricket Board.

Sri Lanka Captain Kusal Mendis cited that inability to carry on with good starts as the key reason of defeat.

Looking ahead, Zimbabwe will join Sri Lanka and Pakistan for a T20 tri-series in Rawalpindi, commencing on Tuesday, as all three teams prepare for next year’s T20 World Cup.

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