Colombo, Nov 12 (V7N) — Pakistan secured a thrilling 6-run victory over Sri Lanka in the opening match of the three-match ODI series, taking a 1–0 lead.

Batting first after losing the toss, Pakistan posted 299 for 5 in 50 overs despite an early collapse at 95 for 4. Salman Ali Agha anchored the innings with an unbeaten 105 off 87 balls, earning him the Man of the Match award. He shared a crucial 138-run partnership with Hussain Talat (62), while Mohammad Nawaz added a quickfire 36 off 23 balls.

In reply, Sri Lanka fell short, finishing on 293 for 9 despite Wanindu Hasaranga’s valiant 59 off 52 balls. Haris Rauf led Pakistan’s attack with figures of 4 for 61.

The second ODI will be played in Rawalpindi on Thursday.

Brief Scores:
Pakistan 299/5 (Salman 105*, Talat 62, Nawaz 36*; Hasaranga 3/54)
Sri Lanka 293/9 (Hasaranga 59, Samarawickrama 39; Rauf 4/61)
Result: Pakistan won by 6 runs.
Series: Pakistan lead 1–0.

END/SMA/AJ