Pakistan vs. Sri Lanka: Pakistan delivered a commanding all-round performance throughout the series, outplaying Sri Lanka in every department to secure a memorable ODI triumph in Rawalpindi.
The home team showcased all-around dominance across all three matches, with star performances from Salman Agha, Babar Azam, and Haris Rauf guiding the hosts to a strong series victory.
Pakistan Seal ODI Series Win Against Sri Lanka in Rawalpindi
Background & Security Concerns
When Sri Lanka toured Pakistan in November 2025, the series was overshadowed by serious security concerns—a suicide bombing in nearby Islamabad just days before the second ODI raised alarm across both camps.
In response, the Pakistani government deployed army and paramilitary forces to protect the Sri Lankan team, assuring them of their safety.
The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) and Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) coordinated closely, and the tour went ahead despite some players wanting to return home.
1st ODI: 11 November 2025 (Rawalpindi)
- Pakistan won a tight match by six runs.
- Pakistan’s innings: 299/5 in 50 overs.
- Key performers:
- Salman Agha scored 105 off 87 balls.
- Hussain Talat made 62 off 63 balls.
- Salman Agha scored 105 off 87 balls.
- In Sri Lanka’s reply, Wanindu Hasaranga took three wickets.
- Haris Rauf was among the top bowlers for Pakistan (4 wickets).
- Player of the Match: Salman Agha for his century and match-winning effort.
Match 2: The Decisive ODI at Rawalpindi
The second ODI took place on 14 November 2025 at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium. Sri Lanka batted first and posted a competitive total of 288/8 in their 50 overs.
For Sri Lanka, Janith Liyanage top-scored with 54, while Kamindu Mendis contributed 44. But Pakistan’s bowlers struck well: Abrar Ahmed took three wickets for 41, and Haris Rauf also claimed 3.
Chasing 289, Pakistan got off to a strong start. After the early loss, Babar Azam and Fakhar Zaman built a key partnership, and then Mohammad Rizwan joined Azam to steady the innings.
Azam eventually reached a vital 102 not out (119 balls); his 20th ODI century, breaking a long drought. (Cricket World) Rizwan remained unbeaten at 51.
Pakistan sealed the match with 10 balls to spare, winning by eight wickets.
Babar Azam was deservedly named Player of the Match. With this win, Pakistan secured an unassailable lead of 2–0 in the three-match series.
Key Statistics & Highlights
- Venue: Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium, Rawalpindi (PCB).
- Toss: Pakistan opted to field first.
- Sri Lanka’s batting:
- 288/8 in 50 overs.
- Notable innings: Janith Liyanage (54), Kamindu Mendis (44).
- Pakistan’s chase:
- 289/2 in 48.2 overs (10 balls remaining).
- Babar Azam: 102* (119).
- Fakhar Zaman: 78.
- Mohammad Rizwan: 51*
- Bowling highlights:
- Abrar Ahmed: 3/41
- Haris Rauf: 3 wickets as well
3rd ODI: 16 November 2025 (Rawalpindi)
- In the third ODI, Sri Lanka were bowled out for 211.
- Pakistan won by six wickets.
- SL 211 (45.2).
- PAK 215/4(44.4).
Context & Significance
- The first ODI win gave Pakistan an early lead in the series.
- With security concerns high due to recent events in Islamabad, both teams and the PCB have been under pressure to complete the series safely.
Impact & Significance of the Series
This series is significant for several reasons:
- Security Validation:
Despite the bombing in Islamabad, the Sri Lankan team’s decision to stay on and complete the series with heavy security sends a strong message about Pakistan’s ability to host international cricket. (Reuters) - Babar Azam’s Resurgence:
Azam’s century was not just a match-winner. It marked the end of a long dry spell in his ODI career and was a significant morale boost for the team. - Momentum for Pakistan:
Winning the series before the final match gives Pakistan strong momentum and shows their depth in batting. It also adds pressure on Sri Lanka going into the final game. - T20 Tri-Series Context:
Right after this ODI series, Pakistan is scheduled to host a T20 tri-nation series (with Sri Lanka and Zimbabwe), with all matches to be played in Rawalpindi. The decision to shift the tri-series entirely to Rawalpindi came after the bombing, emphasising safety and logistical control.
Security Measures & Political Context
The security aspect of this tour cannot be understated:
- The Pakistani Army and paramilitary forces were deployed to safeguard the Sri Lankan team.
- PCB Chairman & Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi personally met with the Sri Lankan players and officials to assure them.
- The Sri Lanka Cricket Board (SLC) reaffirmed its commitment to continuing the tour, despite players’ initial demands to return home.
This comes in the shadow of past attacks on cricket teams in Pakistan (notably the 2009 attack on the Sri Lankan team), so completing this tour carries symbolic importance.
Fan Reactions & Media Buzz
- Cricket media and fans celebrated Babar Azam’s century as a significant highlight.
- Social media threads (Reddit, etc.) praised Pakistan’s calm chase and resilience.
- Analysts noted Abrar Ahmed’s spin and Rauf’s pace as key to breaking Sri Lanka’s innings.
- The broader sentiment: this series win, under difficult security conditions, adds to Pakistan’s reputation as a safe venue for international cricket.
What’s Next
- Meanwhile, the T20 tri-series (Pakistan vs. Sri Lanka & Zimbabwe) will begin shortly after, also in Rawalpindi.
Challenges & Takeaways
Challenges:
- High security risk remains a major concern for future tours.
- Psychological pressure on visiting teams after the bombing incident.
- Logistical strain on PCB and security agencies to maintain a secure environment.
Takeaways:
- Pakistan’s ability to ensure high-level security was tested and passed.
- Players like Babar Azam showcased resilience and leadership under pressure.
- Successful hosting strengthens Pakistan’s case to attract more international teams.
Bottom Line
The Pakistan vs. Sri Lanka 2025 ODI series in Rawalpindi is about more than just cricket.
It’s a story of resilience, assurance, and a statement to the cricketing world: Pakistan remains open for international cricket, even under challenging circumstances.
With strong batting, disciplined bowling, and a calm chase led by Babar Azam, Pakistan sealed the series and sent a message, both on and off the field.