Pakistan Bowl Out SL for 128 in Thriller: Shadab, Abrar Star in 1st T20I Opener!

In a gripping start to the three-match T20I series at Rangiri Dambulla International Stadium, Pakistan captain Salman Ali Agha won the toss and elected to bowl first against Sri Lanka, citing weather conditions as a key factor.

Sri Lanka's innings crumbled under Pakistan's spin attack, restricted to a modest 128 all out. Shadab Khan, returning after shoulder surgery since June 2025, starred with 2-25 in his four overs, striking twice in his opening over by dismissing Kusal Mendis lbw and Danjaya de Silva caught behind.

Abrar Ahmed was devastating with 3-25, deceiving Charith Asalanka with a googly and removing Sahan Liyanage (40 off 31) late on. Salman Mirza claimed 3-18, including Dasun Shanaka and Dushmantha Chameera, while Mohammad Wasim picked 2-7 to wrap up the innings with Maheesh Theekshana's dismissal.

Sri Lanka were 35-2 at the powerplay end and 59-4 at the halfway mark. Wanindu Hasaranga and Liyanage offered resistance, pushing past 100, but Pakistan's bowlers prevailed.

This series is a crucial preparation for the 2026 T20 World Cup starting February 7, with both teams playing group and Super 8 stages in Sri Lanka. Pakistan, fresh off a tri-series win at home, boast form players like Sahibzada Farhan and Fakhar Zaman. Sri Lanka, under Dasun Shanaka after a disastrous tour of Pakistan, rely on Hasaranga and Kusal Perera.

Pakistan's chase is underway, with the match poised for an exciting finish. The next games are on January 9 and 11 at the same venue.