Sri Lanka produced a stirring response under pressure to edge Pakistan by 14 runs in a rain-hit, high-scoring thriller in the third and final T20 International at Dambulla on Sunday night, levelling the series 1–1 in dramatic fashion.
Persistent rain delayed the start and eventually reduced the contest to a 12-over shootout, placing a premium on power-hitting and nerve. Asked to bat first, Sri Lanka posted a formidable 160 for 6, a total that ultimately proved just beyond Pakistan’s reach despite a blistering chase.
The hosts endured an early setback when Pathum Nissanka fell without scoring, but Kamil Mishara counter-attacked with a rapid 20 off eight balls to restore momentum. Kusal Mendis anchored the innings with a fluent 30 off 16 deliveries, combining clean stroke play with sharp running, while Dhananjaya de Silva and Charith Asalanka ensured Sri Lanka stayed on course through the middle overs.
However, it was captain Dasun Shanaka who transformed a competitive total into a daunting one. Walking in during the final phase, Shanaka unleashed a breathtaking assault, smashing 34 off just nine balls. His five towering sixes in the death overs electrified the Dambulla crowd and left Pakistan’s bowlers scrambling for answers. Janith Liyanage provided valuable support with an unbeaten 22 off eight as Sri Lanka surged past the 160 mark at a run rate of 13.33.
Pakistan began their chase with intent and briefly threatened to make light of the target. Salman Agha played one of the innings of the series, hammering 45 off just 12 balls, while Mohammad Nawaz and Khawaja Nafay kept the chase alive through the middle overs. At one stage, Pakistan were cruising, well ahead of the required rate, and Sri Lanka appeared to be running out of options.
The turning point came with the introduction of Wanindu Hasaranga. The leg-spinner delivered a match-winning spell, finishing with 4 for 35, breaking the backbone of Pakistan’s batting at crucial moments. Hasaranga removed key batters in quick succession, swinging momentum decisively back in Sri Lanka’s favour. Matheesha Pathirana provided excellent support with two wickets, using his variations cleverly under pressure.
Despite a late flourish, Pakistan fell short at 146 for 8, sealing a memorable victory for the hosts. The win not only squared the series but also underlined Sri Lanka’s resilience and tactical clarity in shortened contests.
In a night shaped by rain, power and momentum shifts, Sri Lanka held their nerve when it mattered most, delivering a thrilling finale to the Pakistan tour of Sri Lanka.
