Why SL Lost to PAK in the 3rd Match of T20I Tri-Series 2025: 3 Key Reasons Behind the Defeat

A crisp night in Rawalpindi; a crowded, energetic atmosphere filled with anticipation of a potentially good start for Sri Lanka. The opening batsmen, Pathum Nissanka and Kamil Mishara, had a positive beginning to their innings and pushed the score to 38 for two by the fifth over. A 22 from 12 deliveries from Mishara gave fans a glimmer of hope that the top order of Sri Lanka would be able to post a competitive total. However, as the first power play was coming to an end, the momentum of the match began to fade quickly away from Sri Lanka. So, what went wrong for Sri Lanka?

Middle-Order Implosion and Self-Inflicted Wounds

Sri Lanka‘s start to their innings looked good; however, the middle order did not hold up. The first blow to the coffin was when Kusal Mendis made a brainless run-out for Sri Lanka at 38/2. A gift that Pakistan took with open arms. By the 12th over of the match, Dasun Shanaka, Kusal Perera, and Kamindu Mendis all fell to Mohammad Nawaz. Sri Lanka was now struggling on 78/5. Nawaz completed a hat-trick, which was greater than personal brilliance as it showed where a structural weakness in the team lay. The poor running between wickets, the panicked shot selection, and the non-existent partnerships meant that the score of 128/7 was not even remotely close to being able to be defended in today’s modern version of T20 cricket. In short, Sri Lanka dug itself into this hole, and Pakistan’s bowlers came in and finished what they started.

Mohammad Nawaz’s Magical Spell

The collapse of Pakistan’s top order presented an opportunity; Mohammad Nawaz capitalised on this by destroying everything in his path with the ferocity of a tornado. With three wickets for sixteen runs off four overs (the minimum required to bowl), Mohammad Nawaz made Sri Lanka batsmen appear as if they were attempting to solve advanced calculus. The momentum swung so heavily in Pakistan’s favour by the 12th over that there was no way back for Sri Lanka. Not only did Mohammad Nawaz remove the primary threats to Pakistan’s batting lineup, but he also created significant mental pressure. Although 41 not out from Janith Liyanage provided some semblance of resistance, the damage had been done, and at this point, the focus turned to containing the chase rather than the possibility of successfully defending 129.

Inability to Adapt and Finish

A low total can still be justified by a team that plays well defensively and has good fielding; however, this did not happen for Sri Lanka, as they were subpar in their defensive tactics and fielding. Saim Ayub and Sahibzada Farhan were able to easily carve up Pakistan’s chase. Thanks to poor reaction time and numerous misplayed balls, Farhan was able to hit an explosive 80 off of 45 deliveries, including six fours and five sixes. Although Dushmantha Chameera did occasionally pick up two wickets (2/29), he was unable to slow down Pakistan’s chase. Furthermore, Sri Lanka relied too heavily on its top-order players and lacked a backup plan once these players lost their wickets. Additionally, Sri Lanka failed to adapt to how much Rawalpindi bounces and failed to put enough pressure on Pakistan during the death overs, and ultimately allowed Pakistan to win with 27 balls remaining.

FAQs

Who was the standout performer for Pakistan?

Mohammad Nawaz, whose 3/16 dismantled Sri Lanka’s middle order.

Why did Sri Lanka struggle to post a big total?

A mix of poor running between wickets, run outs, and collapse against spin.

How did Pakistan chase the target so comfortably?

Sahibzada Farhan’s blitz and lack of pressure from Sri Lanka’s fielding made the chase straightforward.

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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