Kusal Mendis Batting Blitz Helps Sri Lanka Avoid Whitewash, Pakistan Win Series

Sri Lanka avoided a whitewash against Pakistan thanks to a brilliant unbeaten half-century from captain Kusal Mendis. The visitors registered a convincing eight-wicket victory over the hosts in the third and final T20I of the series at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium. After Pakistan posted 168 runs in their allotted 20 overs, Sri Lanka chased down the target with 17 balls to spare. Despite losing the final match, Pakistan clinched the three-match T20I series 2-1 after winning the first two games.

Pakistan won the toss and elected to bat first. However, the hosts struggled from the outset against Sri Lanka’s disciplined bowling and accurate line and length. Experienced Sri Lankan all-rounder Dasun Shanaka was particularly effective, triggering a middle-order collapse by claiming three crucial wickets for just 21 runs in his four overs.

Despite losing wickets at regular intervals, Pakistan captain Sahibzada Farhan held one end together. He produced an impressive innings of 76 off 47 balls. Towards the end, a valuable 34-run contribution from young Arafat Minhas helped Pakistan post a competitive total at the end of their 20 overs.

Chasing a target of 169, Sri Lanka lost opener Lahiru Udara early but continued their pursuit without losing momentum. Captain Kusal Mendis steadied the innings alongside fellow opener Sineth Jayawardene, who scored 38 off 26 balls, to overcome the early setback.

After Jayawardene’s dismissal, Kusal took complete control of the chase alongside Kamindu Mendis. The unbeaten 98-run partnership between the two Mendis brothers sealed a comfortable victory for Sri Lanka. Captain Kusal remained unbeaten on 87 off 48 balls, while Kamindu contributed an unbeaten 40 off 27 deliveries. Sri Lanka reached 172 for two in just 17.1 overs to secure a commanding win.

Although Sri Lanka lost the series, the emphatic victory in the final match will provide a significant confidence boost as they conclude their tour. Both teams will now turn their attention to the upcoming tri-nation ODI series featuring England.