On Tuesday, Sri Lanka will play Pakistan in the series’ third and final Twenty20 International. The game will take place in Rawalpindi, the site of Sri Lanka’s first two losses. The hosts are hoping for a perfect sweep after taking a 2-0 lead in the series. Sri Lanka is still optimistic about improving their performance despite their recent setbacks.
The focal point of the chase was Kusal Mendis, who hit 87 off 48 balls at a strike rate of 181.25 with 9 fours and 4 sixes. He had great company at the top thanks to Sineth Jayawardena, who scored 38 off 26 balls, including two sixes and five fours. Lahiru Udara was dismissed LBW off Imran Randhawa’s bowling, which was Sri Lanka’s lone early loss. Despite replays indicating the decision was dubious, the visitors decided not to use the review. After joining Kusal Mendis, Kamindu Mendis added 40 off 27 balls, including four fours, to seal the victory.
The surface for the third Twenty20 International is probably going to be the same as the Rawalpindi pitch, which has a history of favouring hitters. Tuesday night’s weather is predicted to be pleasant, with temperatures in the low 20s Celsius. Pakistan has a 20-12 win-loss record versus the Lankans in 32 Twenty20 International matches. The home team is ahead 5–4 in Pakistan. According to Cricinfo, the two teams have played five times at Rawalpindi, with Pakistan leading 4-1.
Earlier, with figures of 3 for 21, Dasun Shanaka spearheaded Sri Lanka’s bowling performance. Pakistan was limited to 168 for 8 as Eshan Malinga and Nuwan Thushara each claimed two wickets. The only bright spot for the home team was Sahibzada Farhan, who scored 76 off 47 balls with three sixes and seven fours. No other Pakistani batsman scored more than 20, with Arafat Minhas contributing 34.
However, after winning the series 2-0, Pakistan is in an excellent position to rest important players. However, management might be persuaded to maintain this productive combination because their hitters seldom have such chances during a series. Although Pakistan’s top order may have been breached by Sri Lanka’s bowlers this time, the middle order could benefit from some practice before playing in subsequent games.
