NEW DELHI: Pakistan, led by Shaheen Afridi, opened their ODI series against Sri Lanka with a narrow six-run win in Rawalpindi. After being asked to bat first, the hosts slipped to 95 for 4 before a solid stand between Salman Agha and Hussain Talat steadied the innings.

Salman remained unbeaten on 105 from 87 balls, playing a controlled knock that guided Pakistan towards a competitive total. Hussain Talat contributed 62, while Mohammad Nawaz added a brisk 36 not out in the final overs to lift the score to 299 for 5.

Wanindu Hasaranga bowled with good control for Sri Lanka, returning figures of 3 for 54. Maheesh Theekshana and Asitha Fernando clinch one wicket each.

Sri Lanka fall short despite Hasaranga’s late fight

Chasing 300, Sri Lanka began well through Kamil Mishara and Pathum Nissanka, who added 85 for the opening wicket. Haris Rauf broke the partnership and struck again to remove Nissanka and Kusal Mendis, tilting the momentum.

Charith Asalanka and Sadeera Samarawickrama attempted to rebuild, but wickets at regular intervals halted progress. Wanindu Hasaranga kept the chase alive with a fighting 59 off 52 balls before falling to Naseem Shah in the 49th over.

Sri Lanka finished on 293 for 9, falling just short despite a competitive effort. Haris Rauf led the bowling with 4 for 61, while Naseem Shah and Faheem Ashraf picked up two wickets each.

Pakistan take 1-0 series lead

The win gave Pakistan a 1-0 lead in the three-match series under Shaheen Afridi’s captaincy. Both sides will meet again in Lahore for the second ODI.