Pakistan vs Sri Lanka, 3rd ODI, Karachi: Preview, predictions, likely XIs

Rain had washed out the first ODI between Pakistan and Sri Lanka, and even pushed the second ODI back by a day. Once play got underway, however, Fakhar Zaman and Imam-ul-Haq got Pakistan off to a brisk start. Babar Azam then lit up Karachi with an array of scintillating strokes en route a memorable 115 to take Pakistan to 305/7 in front of a surprisingly sparse crowd.

Reduced to 28/5 by Usman Shinwari (5/51), Sri Lanka fought back through a national record fifth-wicket stand of 179 between Shehan Jayasuriya (96) and Dasun Shanaka (68). However, once they were separated, Sri Lanka collapsed to 238.

The third (and decisive) ODI will be played after a day’s gap. Pakistan will once again take field as favourites, what with a formidable top four and a bowling attack than can run through any batting line-up on their day.

While the second-string Sri Lankan side fought back despite being in tatters, they were really no match for the hosts. However, this will provide them with an opportunity to test their youngsters against a strong opposition in testing conditions.

Head to head

The teams have played 154 times in 44 years: Pakistan have won 90 matches and Sri Lanka 58. At home, too, Pakistan have a 17-12 lead.

Key players

Usman Shinwari (Pakistan): The youngest of Pakistan’s left-arm pace brigade, Shinwari has taken 5 four-wicket hauls in 16 ODIs, 2 of which have been five-fors. If he can replicate his effort from the first match, the Sri Lankan top order will be up against serious challenge.

Shehan Jayasuriya (Sri Lanka): Jayasuriya, easily Sri Lanka’s most impressive player in the first match, conceded 48 from his 10 overs in a total exceeding 300. He then showed poise under pressure to push Sri Lanka to a respectable total.

Likely XIs

Pakistan: Fakhar Zaman, Imam-ul-Haq, Babar Azam, Haris Sohail, Sarfraz Ahmed (c & wk), Iftikhar Ahmed, Imad Wasim, Wahab Riaz, Shadab Khan, Mohammad Amir, Usman Shinwari.

Sri Lanka: Danushka Gunathilaka, Sadeera Samarawickrama (wk), Avishka Fernando, Oshada Fernando, Lahiru Thirimanne (c), Shehan Jayasuriya, Dasun Shanaka, Wanindu Hasaranga, Isuru Udana, Lahiru Kumara, Nuwan Pradeep.

Prediction

Pakistan to win the match and the series.