In the final match of the three T20 series, Sri Lanka defeated Pakistan by 13 runs and completed a clean sweep in the series.
Sri Lanka gave Pakistan a target of 148 runs to win, in response to which Pakistan team could score 134 runs and thus the series was 0-3 in the name of Sri Lanka.
In the match played at the Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore, Sri Lanka won the toss and decided to bat first against Pakistan.
Sri Lanka’s opening batsmen could not perform well and 4 players returned to the pavilion at a total score of 58, but Fernando and Shanaka played a responsible innings in the fifth wicket partnership.
Oshada Fernando scored 78 not out with the help of 3 sixes and 8 fours – Photo: Sri Lanka Official
Thanks to Fernando’s brilliant innings, Sri Lanka scored 147 runs for the loss of 7 wickets in the allotted 20 overs. Oshada Fernando remained not out by scoring 78 runs with the help of 3 sixes and 8 fours.
Mohammad Amir dismissed 3 players on behalf of Green Shirts.
Pakistan started the innings with Fakhar Zaman and Babar Azam, but Fakhar Zaman was bowled on the first ball.
Pakistan’s second wicket fell on a total score of 76 when Babar Azam returned to the pavilion after scoring 27 runs. After that, Haris Sohail and captain Sarfraz could not increase the score enough and got out after scoring 52 and 17 runs respectively.
Pakistan has made three changes in the team for the match, fast bowler Muhammad Hasnain, batsman Umar Akmal and Ahmed Shehzad have been dropped while Iftikhar Ahmed, Haris Sohail, Usman Shinwari have returned to the team.
The Islanders have already won two T20s to clinch the series, with Sri Lanka outclassing Pakistan in the first two T20s of the series.
The eighth ranked Sri Lankan team in the T20I easily defeated the number one ranked Pakistan team in both the matches and also won the series.
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**Interview with Sports Analyst, Arjun Mehta, on Sri Lanka’s Clean Sweep Against Pakistan**
**Interviewer:** Thank you for joining us, Arjun. Let’s dive into the recent T20 series where Sri Lanka completed a clean sweep against Pakistan. What are your thoughts on their performance in the final match?
**Arjun Mehta:** Thank you for having me! Sri Lanka’s performance in the final was quite impressive. Setting a target of 148 runs was strategic, and despite some early setbacks with their opening batsmen, they managed to post a competitive total.
**Interviewer:** Yes, it seems like they struggled at the top of their batting order. What do you think was the turning point for Sri Lanka in this match?
**Arjun Mehta:** The middle-order partnership was crucial. After losing those early wickets, the middle order stabilized the innings and set a reasonable total. Furthermore, their bowlers did a phenomenal job in restricting Pakistan to 134 runs, especially in the final overs, which can be critical in T20 matches.
**Interviewer:** Absolutely. Pakistan had a strong squad and home advantage at the Gaddafi Stadium. Do you think that played a role in the series outcome?
**Arjun Mehta:** Definitely. Playing at home typically gives teams a psychological edge due to familiar conditions and crowd support. However, Sri Lanka handled the pressure exceptionally well. They exhibited great skill and composure, proving that they were well-prepared and focused throughout the series.
**Interviewer:** With this victory, Sri Lanka has certainly made a statement. What does this mean for their cricketing future?
**Arjun Mehta:** This clean sweep is significant for Sri Lanka, boosting their confidence ahead of upcoming tournaments. It gives them momentum and allows them to identify their strengths and weaknesses. As they build towards major competitions, this cohesion and match-winning mentality will be invaluable.
**Interviewer:** Great insights, Arjun. Lastly, what can Pakistan learn from this series to bounce back in the future?
**Arjun Mehta:** Pakistan needs to reassess their strategy, particularly in the batting department. They showed glimpses of their talent but lacked consistency. Focusing on nurturing the young players and building a solid middle order can help. Additionally, they should analyze their bowling tactics and field placements to adapt to different conditions better.
**Interviewer:** Thank you, Arjun, for your valuable analysis on the Sri Lanka vs. Pakistan series. It’s definitely an exciting time for cricket fans!
**Arjun Mehta:** My pleasure! Always happy to discuss cricket.
