Why SL Lost to PAK in the 3rd ODI of Sri Lanka tour of Pakistan 2025: 3 Key Reasons Behind the Defeat

Sri Lanka’s Rawalpindi disaster occurred on November 16, 2025, during the third one-day international between Sri Lanka and Pakistan on this three-match series tour. The scoreboard indicated that there was enough competition for Sri Lanka to stay in contention; however, all hopes seemed to dissipate after Sri Lanka was defeated by six wickets in 32 deliveries. Let’s now look at the three main factors that led to a premature end to Sri Lanka’s ambitions on the night when Pakistan’s bowling attack clicked together as if it were clockwork.

Lack of Sustained Partnerships

One of the most significant factors is that Sri Lanka could not create sustained partnerships to follow on from what was a strong beginning. The partnership between Pathum Nissanka and Kamil Mishara produced a 55-run opening stand, which provided an ideal opportunity to develop a competitive score; however, as soon as they started losing wickets, the loss of Kusal Mendis at 112/3 and Kamindu Mendis shortly after the innings was lost in terms of the overall strategy. As the pressure mounted on the middle order, they were unable to capitalize, and Janith Liyanage scored only four runs while the lower order failed to accelerate the scoring rate to create additional opportunities. Although Sadeera Samarawickrama did provide some fight with his 48, unfortunately, the innings lacked rhythm and momentum. 

Pakistan’s Bowling Brilliance

Pakistan’s bowling also provided some game-changing brilliance as the second reason for their victory. Pakistani bowler Mohammad Wasim, who earned the Player of the Match Award for his 3/47, consistently came up with big wicket-taking plays in key times and shut down the batting line-up of Sri Lanka by removing middle-order batsmen. Haris Rauf’s early wicket of Pathum Nissanka set the stage for this Pakistan performance, while Faisal Akram, with clever pace variation, took out Sadeera Samarawickrama and Kamindu Mendis. For the chase, Sri Lanka’s bowlers were unable to create the same pressure on Pakistan that Pakistan had created on them; Vandersay got the early wickets but was unable to prevent Fakhar Zaman from getting an aggressive 55-run score. Rizwan’s steady 61* gave the chase no momentum and left SL constantly playing catch-up. As a result of the brilliance of Wasim and Rauf, Pakistan showed how their attack can not only limit runs but also control the tempo of the game. 

Situational Factors and Fielding Lapses

Additionally, as an additional layer of problem, situationally-based problems contributed to Sri Lanka’s problems. Errors in fielding, excessive reliance upon the top order, and poor adjustment to Rawalpindi’s playing conditions caused harm to Sri Lanka. Rathnayake’s run-out demonstrated a lack of calmness and coordination within the team; however, Madushan and Theekshana also did not live up to expectations, delivering large runs at times and missing opportunities for significant momentum. Additionally, the pitch, with a slight possibility of swing and uneven bounce, would have benefited from smarter shot selection and batting rotation; however, Sri Lanka was unable to do so consistently. In contrast, Pakistan displayed patience and timing as they batted through the lineup, which enabled them to maintain a consistent pace, even after losing their top players, clearly demonstrating a superior ability to adjust to the conditions.

FAQs

1: Why did Sri Lanka lose the 3rd ODI against Pakistan?

Sri Lanka lost due to inconsistent partnerships, brilliant Pakistani bowling, and poor adaptation to match situations.

2: Who was the standout player in the match?

Mohammad Wasim was the Player of the Match, claiming 3 crucial wickets that broke Sri Lanka’s middle order.

3: Could Sri Lanka have chased the target successfully?

Yes, but only with better partnerships and smarter handling of Pakistan’s strike bowlers; they faltered under pressure.

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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