Pakistan Edges Sri Lanka in Nail-Biting 1st ODI Thriller, Agha Salman Stars with Unbeaten Ton

In a tense showdown at Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium, Pakistan clinched a dramatic six-run victory over Sri Lanka in the opening ODI of their three-match series. Batting first, Sri Lanka posted a challenging 293 for 9 in 50 overs, powered by Wanindu Hasaranga's gritty 59 off 72 balls, alongside contributions from Sadeera Samarawickrama's 39 and Kamil Mishara's 38. But it was Pakistan's bowling attack that turned the tide, with Haris Rauf claiming a fiery 4 for 61 to keep the islanders in check during the death overs.

Chasing 294, Pakistan wobbled early but steadied thanks to Agha Salman's masterful unbeaten 105 off 112 deliveries, his second ODI century. Hussain Talat chipped in with a brisk 62, while Mohammad Nawaz's unbeaten 36 guided the hosts home at 299 for 5 in the final over. Hasaranga struck back with impressive figures of 3 for 54, but it wasn't enough to defend the total on a pitch offering some turn.

The match lived up to the hype of PAK vs SL rivalry, showcasing both teams' resilience amid a packed schedule. Pakistan's lower order depth proved decisive, though Sri Lanka's middle-order collapse raised questions about their finishing prowess. With two ODIs left, the series hangs in balance—will the Lankans bounce back, or can Pakistan build on this momentum?