LAHORE – Pakistan pulled off a sensational run chase to clinch the ODI Tri-Series 2026 trophy, defeating Sri Lanka by three wickets in a thrilling final at Gaddafi Stadium on Saturday, October 31.
Led by Shaheen Shah Afridi, Men in Green chased down a daunting 326-run target, finishing at 331/7 in 48.3 overs with nine balls remaining, triggering celebrations among the home crowd.
The hero of the memorable victory was Fakhar Zaman, who smashed a magnificent 127 off just 99 deliveries, turning Sri Lanka’s imposing total into a winning opportunity for Pakistan.
Fakhar Zaman’s Century Sets Up Victory
Pakistan’s chase began under pressure after star batter Babar Azam departed without scoring. However, Fakhar Zaman took charge, completing his century in just 84 balls and keeping the scoreboard moving with an aggressive batting display.
Young wicketkeeper Saad Baig provided crucial support, scoring 74 off 75 deliveries, before Arafat Minhas unleashed a blistering 61 from only 31 balls to take Pakistan towards the finish line.
Earlier, Sri Lanka had posted an impressive 325/8 in 50 overs after Pakistan elected to field first.
Kamindu Mendis dominated the innings with his maiden ODI century, smashing 131 off 128 balls, including 12 fours and two sixes. Pavan Rathnayake added 77 off 65 balls, while Avishka Fernando contributed 38.
Pakistan’s bowlers fought back to prevent Sri Lanka from reaching 350, with captain Shaheen Afridi claiming 2/50, Salman Ali Agha taking 2/44 and Haris Rauf finishing with 2/60.
Sri Lanka’s Dilshan Madushanka picked up three wickets for 63 runs, while Asitha Fernando claimed two for 72 and Maheesh Theekshana took one for 57, but their efforts failed to stop Pakistan’s relentless chase.
The victory marked a memorable achievement for Pakistan as Shaheen Afridi’s side secured the ODI Tri-Series 2026 title on home soil.
From Kamindu Mendis’ brilliant 131 to Fakhar Zaman’s match-winning 127, the final delivered a spectacular batting contest, but it was Pakistan who held their nerve to lift the trophy in Lahore.
