Pakistan defeated Sri Lanka by four wickets in the opening T20 International at Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium on October 9, 2026, taking a 1-0 lead in the three-match series. Captain Sahibzada Farhan and Maaz Sadaqat delivered outstanding batting performances to guide Pakistan to a successful chase of 183 runs.
Sahibzada Farhan Leads Pakistan to Victory
Chasing 183, Pakistan reached 187 for six in 18.5 overs. Sahibzada Farhan led the innings with an impressive 89 off 53 balls, hitting 10 fours and four sixes.
Farhan anchored the chase and maintained the scoring rate despite losing wickets towards the end. His performance earned him the Player of the Match award.
Maaz Sadaqat Scores Maiden T20I Half-Century
Maaz Sadaqat played a crucial role alongside Farhan, scoring 50 off just 29 deliveries. His innings included four boundaries and three sixes.
The pair added 92 runs for the second wicket, putting Pakistan in a strong position to complete the chase. Fakhar Zaman also contributed 21 runs from 13 balls during the opening partnership.
Lahiru Udara Powers Sri Lanka to 182
Earlier, Sri Lanka scored 182 for eight in their allotted 20 overs after winning the toss and choosing to bat first.
Opener Lahiru Udara was the visitors’ leading scorer, making 91 off 55 balls with 11 fours and a six. However, regular wickets prevented Sri Lanka from building an even larger total.
Pakistan fast bowler Naseem Shah took three wickets for 36 runs, while debutant Mohammad Imran claimed two wickets for 21 runs.
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Pakistan Takes Early Lead in T20I Series
The victory gives Pakistan a 1-0 advantage in the three-match series. The second T20I is scheduled for October 11, followed by the final match on October 13, with both games set to take place at Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium.
Pakistan will look to build on its opening victory, while Sri Lanka will aim to level the series in the next match.
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