How These Bowlers Can Change the Game in PAK vs SL, 3rd ODI | Sri Lanka tour of Pakistan 2025

The match between Pakistan and Sri Lanka in Rawalpindi has become a battle for speed, accuracy, and spin technique. The third one-day international is not just any ordinary rubber; it is a battle for each one of the next one over, one ball, to shift the direction of the series. With each side needing momentum, this contest could be a defining moment in the series, and it is possible for the three bowlers mentioned above to sway the outcome of the series significantly.

Haris Rauf’s Pace as a Tactical Weapon

Haris Rauf is not just a speeder but also a situational player. He gets his 5/18 best bowling figures out of Pakistan’s known home ground. Haris Rauf is capable of using his late swing and pressure in death overs against Sri Lanka, who are a middle-order team vulnerable to fast short balls. In addition to this, Rauf can create a situation where Sri Lanka’s scoring will be compressed into Pakistan’s comfort zone by taking early wickets or creating a tight middle over spell. Rauf has shown time and again (5 four-wicket hauls and two five-wicket hauls) that if he finds rhythm, then the scoreboard will become a problem for the opposing team as opposed to a score.

Naseem Shah’s Stealthy Disruption

While Naseem Shah’s contributions may not make it onto the radio commentators’ lists each time he takes a wicket, his influence is usually quite obvious. A 5.45 average will hide how Naseem tends to take multiple wickets at once – Two five-wicket hauls in just 33 ODI matches show that there are times where Naseem will be the one who ignites a collapse. In matches against Sri Lanka, where Avishka Fernando and Bhanuka Rajapaksa have been able to build large partnerships which have defined innings, Naseem’s in-swinging deliveries and ability to vary bounce can limit the batting team’s ability to consolidate. If Pakistan is able to get Naseem bowling aggressively at the stumps while also using Rauf’s speed to try to create some panic among the batsmen.

Wanindu Hasaranga’s Spin as a Counterbalance

Wanindu Hasaranga is Sri Lanka’s solution. He combines the art of leg spin with legitimate lower-order batting. With 97 fours and 36 sixes in ODIs, he has proven that he is able to score in high-pressure situations; however, it is the wickets that have been the true difference maker. At a strike rate of 108.46, Hasaranga will be able to disrupt the momentum of Pakistan’s batters when bowling at them during the middle overs, which may result in key breakthroughs for Sri Lanka. With Pakistan’s batsmen having historically struggled with deceptive turn from bowlers on low bounce pitches, Hasaranga’s ability to switch between being aggressive and defensive, based upon the situation, will provide Sri Lanka with a strategic advantage. If Hasaranga can bowl a timely spell, he may be able to cause a shift in momentum for Pakistan and ultimately lead to an unanticipated downfall.

The contest is not simply a matter of which team will out-bowl their opponent; however, as much as anything else, this will be based upon their ability to manage pressure and execute a winning strategy at the right time. Suppose Pakistan’s new-look fast bowling unit can create an early psychological advantage. In that case, leg-spinner Hasaranga will have the opportunity to pull Sri Lanka back into contention with the ability to take momentum from the opposition through his spin. The entire momentum of the series, the crowd, and ultimately the outcome will depend on whether or not these three bowlers can disrupt the rhythm of play, test the patience of the batsmen, and make the most of the conditions that they find themselves in. 

Key Takeaway:

In Rawalpindi, three bowlers, not just runs, will likely decide the series outcome.

FAQs:

1: What makes Haris Rauf dangerous in ODIs?

His pace, late swing, and proven ability to take wickets under pressure make him a game-changer.

2: Why is Naseem Shah pivotal despite fewer ODIs?

He strikes in clusters and can break key partnerships, often altering match momentum.

3: How can Hasaranga influence Pakistan’s innings?

Through deceptive leg-spin and timely wickets, he can restrict scoring and trigger collapses.

Disclaimer: This Exclusive News is based on the author’s understanding, analysis, and instinct. As you review this information, consider the points mentioned and form your own conclusions.

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