Pakistan’s middle-order batter Salman Ali Agha produced a match-defining innings in the 1st ODI of Pakistan vs Sri Lanka. However, the Pakistani batter rescued his side from early trouble and guided the team to a strong total of 300 runs at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium. Moreover, his brilliant century turned the tide after Pakistan’s top order faltered against a disciplined Sri Lankan attack led by Wanindu Hasaranga and Asitha Fernando.
The Pakistan vs Sri Lanka 2025 ODI series marks the first bilateral meeting between the two nations in six years. Previously, Pakistan won the 2019 home series 2-0. This time too, the hosts aimed to continue their winning momentum following a 2-1 triumph against South Africa earlier this year under the captaincy of Shaheen Shah Afridi.
Early Wickets Put Pakistan Under Pressure
After choosing to bat, Pakistan had a shaky start, as Saim Ayub got trapped by lbw for just 6 runs in the fourth over. However, the initial partnership between Fakhar Zaman and Babar Azam offered some resistance with a 54-run stand off 84 balls, but the visitors’ spinners soon took control.
Wanindu Hasaranga showcases his class, as he dismissed Fakhar Zaman (32), Mohammad Rizwan (5), and the in-form Babar Azam (29) in quick succession. Hence, his triple strike left Pakistan reeling at 95-4 that triggering fears of a collapse before the innings even reached the halfway mark.
At that stage, Sri Lanka seemed on top due to their spinners exploiting Rawalpindi’s turning surface and Pakistan struggling to build momentum.
Salman Ali Agha and Hussain Talat Lead the Comeback
The turning point of the game came with a gritty and calculated 138-run partnership between Salman Ali Agha and Hussain Talat. However, the duo rebuilt the inning of their team by displaying composure under pressure.
The century of Salman was a blend of patience and power. He rooted the strike smartly while keeping the scoreboard ticking and pushing the loose deliveries. He reached his century in style while receiving a standing ovation from the Rawalpindi crowd. Plus, his innings made the foundation for a competitive total, as Pakistan finished at 299/5 in 50 overs.
On the other hand, 62 off 63 balls of Hussain Tallat given stability and aggression at the other hand. Together, both batters lifted Pakistan from 95-4 to 233 before Talat was dismissed in the 44th over.
Head-to-Head: Pakistan’s Dominance Over Sri Lanka Continues
Historically, Pakistan holds a strong record against Sri Lanka in ODIs. Pakistan has won 93 out of 157 matches. However, Sri Lanka has triumphed 59 times, with one tie and four no results.
The dominance is even more pronounced in Pakistan, as the host has won 18 out of 30 encounters, compared to Sri Lanka’s 12. As we mentioned above, Pakistan has also won the bilateral ODI series in 2019, as they ended with a convincing 2-0 victory.
Babar Azam boasts impressive stats against Sri Lanka among the current squad, as he has scored 535 runs in 12 matches at an average of 53.50, including three centuries.
Looking Ahead: Shaheen Afridi Eyes Series Momentum
This series is the second stint of Shaheen Afridi as the Pakistan’s ODI Captain. Moreover, he seems eager to build on the success achieved against South Africa. In addition, his leadership has brought fresh energy to the squad, as young talents like Saim Ayub and Hussain Talat are complementing experienced players such as Babar Azam and Salman Ali Agha.
After a strong first-innings performance led by Salman’s heroic knock, Pakistan will look to maintain pressure on Sri Lanka and begin the three-match series on a high note.
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