Pakistan clinched the ODI Tri-Series 2026-27 title at Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore on October 31, defeating Sri Lanka in the final with three wickets and nine balls to spare. Set a target of 326, Pakistan overhauled Sri Lanka’s total of 325 for 8 in a chase that remained tense deep into the closing overs.
Fakhar Zaman was the cornerstone of the chase, scoring 127 off 99 balls with 11 fours and 6 sixes. It was his 12th ODI century and arguably his most important, coming in a title-deciding final. Along the way, Fakhar crossed 350 ODI runs in the series, underlining his dominance throughout the tournament. Fittingly, it was his blade that set the platform for Pakistan’s triumph in front of a packed Lahore crowd.
How did Pakistan recover from 14 for 2 to win the final?
Pakistan were in early difficulty, slipping to 14 for 2 before Fakhar Zaman and Saad Baig steadied the innings. The two batters combined for a third-wicket stand of 149 runs, with Baig contributing 74 off 75 balls. That partnership shifted the momentum firmly in Pakistan’s favour and laid the foundation for the eventual victory.
Lower down the order, Arafat Minhas provided a vital late push, striking 61 off just 31 balls from the No. 7 position. His cameo kept Pakistan ahead of the required rate in the closing overs. Captain Shaheen Shah Afridi then hit the winning runs, a six over deep midwicket off Dilshan Madushanka, to seal the title for Pakistan.
What did Sri Lanka’s innings look like before setting a target of 325?
Sri Lanka posted 325 for 8 in their allotted overs, a total built significantly around a century from Kamindu Mendis. The Lankan innings appeared to be heading towards an even larger score, with Sri Lanka placed at 255 for 2 at the 41-over mark. However, Shaheen Afridi took the key wicket of Mendis at that stage, triggering a collapse that restricted the visitors.
Sri Lanka lost wickets in a cluster after Mendis departed and could not push their total beyond 325. Pakistan’s bowlers, led by Afridi’s crucial intervention, kept the target within reach. Fakhar’s 12th ODI hundred ultimately made the difference in a memorable tri-series final at Lahore, completing a well-deserved title win for the hosts.
