The pak vs srilanka 1st odi highlights brought cricket fans an exciting contest as Pakistan faced Sri Lanka in the opening match of the 2026 ODI Tri-Series at Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium on October 18, 2026. Pakistan delivered a strong batting performance, with Salman Ali Agha scoring an impressive century of 107 runs. Sri Lanka fought back during the chase, but Pakistan’s bowling attack kept the pressure on and secured a memorable 37-run victory. It was an exciting start to the tri-series, giving fans plenty of moments to remember.
Pakistan posted 305 runs before being bowled out in 49.5 overs. Sri Lanka fought hard during their chase, with Pavan Rathnayake scoring 79 runs and Janith Liyanage contributing 60. However, Pakistan’s bowling attack maintained pressure and restricted the visitors to 268 runs in 48.1 overs.
It was a positive beginning for Pakistan in the tri-series. The team’s batting recovery, Salman Ali Agha’s century, and impressive bowling performance made the opening ODI an entertaining match.
Introduction to Pakistan vs Sri Lanka 1st ODI
The Pakistan vs Sri Lanka first ODI was played on Sunday, 18 October 2026, at Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium. It was the opening match of a three-team ODI tournament featuring Pakistan, Sri Lanka, and England.
Both teams entered the competition looking to start their campaigns with a victory. Pakistan had the advantage of playing at home, while Sri Lanka wanted to challenge the hosts with a competitive performance.
Sri Lanka won the toss and decided to field first. Their bowlers initially managed to take wickets, but Pakistan’s middle order produced important contributions to build a competitive total.
Salman Ali Agha became the central figure of Pakistan’s innings with an excellent century. After Pakistan finished on 305, Sri Lanka needed a strong batting performance to chase the target.
The visitors remained in the contest for much of their innings, but Pakistan’s pace attack eventually took control and secured a 37-run victory.
Pakistan vs Sri Lanka 1st ODI Match Summary
The opening match featured important performances from both sides. Pakistan showed greater consistency across the two innings and successfully defended their total.
| Match information | Details |
|---|---|
| Match | Pakistan vs Sri Lanka, 1st Match |
| Tournament | Pakistan ODI Tri-Series 2026/27 |
| Date | 18 October 2026 |
| Venue | Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium |
| Toss | Sri Lanka elected to field |
| Pakistan | 305 all out (49.5 overs) |
| Sri Lanka | 268 all out (48.1 overs) |
| Result | Pakistan won by 37 runs |
| Player of the Match | Salman Ali Agha |
Pakistan started their innings with the intention of building a strong total. Although the top order experienced some pressure, the middle order contributed valuable runs.
Salman Ali Agha’s 107-run innings was the biggest highlight. Babar Azam scored 45, while wicketkeeper-batter Saad Baig contributed 39 runs.
Sri Lanka needed 306 runs to win. Pavan Rathnayake and Janith Liyanage provided resistance with half-centuries, but Pakistan continued taking wickets and eventually bowled out the visitors for 268.
Pakistan’s Batting Performance
Pakistan’s batting performance was built around an excellent century from Salman Ali Agha and useful contributions from the middle order.
Early Contributions from the Top Order
Pakistan did not have a perfect start. Fakhar Zaman scored 16 runs from 19 balls, while Saim Ayub contributed seven from eight deliveries.
Babar Azam then provided stability with a composed innings of 45 runs from 57 balls. His innings included six boundaries and helped Pakistan maintain momentum during the middle overs.
Saad Baig also made an important contribution. The young wicketkeeper-batter scored 39 runs from 40 balls, including three fours and two sixes.
Salman Ali Agha’s Brilliant Century
Salman Ali Agha was the standout performer of the Pakistani batting lineup. He scored 107 runs from 90 deliveries, hitting ten fours and one six.
His innings provided Pakistan with the stability and acceleration needed to reach a competitive total. He played confidently against both pace and spin and continued scoring even as wickets fell around him.
The century was especially important because Pakistan needed someone to take responsibility in the middle order. Salman delivered exactly that kind of performance.
Hasan Nawaz also contributed 37 runs from 49 balls, while Arafat Minhas added 18 runs from 15 deliveries.
These contributions helped Pakistan reach 305 runs before losing their final wicket in the 50th over.
Pakistan’s Lower-Order Contribution
Pakistan’s lower order also added useful runs towards the end of the innings. Captain Shaheen Shah Afridi remained unbeaten on 13 from 12 balls, while Faheem Ashraf scored six.
Eshan Malinga was Sri Lanka’s leading wicket-taker, claiming four wickets. Asitha Fernando took three wickets, while Dilshan Madushanka picked up two.
Despite losing wickets regularly, Pakistan managed to cross the 300-run mark. The final total gave their bowlers a strong opportunity to defend the target.
Sri Lanka’s Bowling Performance
Sri Lanka’s bowlers had some successful moments during Pakistan’s first innings. They managed to take wickets at regular intervals and prevented the hosts from building several large partnerships.
Eshan Malinga Led the Bowling Attack
Eshan Malinga was the leading bowler for Sri Lanka. He claimed four wickets for 46 runs in 9.5 overs, making him the most successful bowler of the innings.
Asitha Fernando also delivered an impressive performance, taking three wickets for 59 runs in his 10 overs. Dilshan Madushanka picked up two wickets for 67 runs.
Despite these contributions, Sri Lanka struggled to stop Salman Ali Agha from scoring freely. Pakistan’s middle order continued adding runs, and the team eventually crossed the 300-run mark.
The Sri Lankan bowling attack showed its ability to take wickets, but Pakistan’s total proved challenging to chase.
Sri Lanka’s Run Chase
Sri Lanka needed 306 runs to win the opening ODI. The target required consistent batting and partnerships, particularly against Pakistan’s experienced fast bowlers.
The visitors began their innings with some early pressure. Avishka Fernando scored five runs before departing, while Kusal Mendis contributed 18. Kamindu Mendis added 44 runs from 50 deliveries, giving the middle order some stability.
However, Pakistan continued taking wickets and made it difficult for Sri Lanka to build a comfortable position.
Pavan Rathnayake’s Fighting Innings
Pavan Rathnayake produced one of Sri Lanka’s best performances of the match. He scored 79 runs from 74 balls, including six fours and two sixes.
He attacked the Pakistani bowlers and kept the required run rate under control. His partnership with Janith Liyanage became particularly important for the visitors.
Janith Liyanage Supported the Chase
Janith Liyanage contributed 60 runs from 74 deliveries. He played patiently and helped Sri Lanka remain in the contest.
Together, Rathnayake and Liyanage added 119 runs for the fifth wicket. Their partnership brought Sri Lanka back into the match after the team had slipped to 91/4.
However, Pakistan eventually broke the partnership. The departure of Rathnayake at 210 runs created fresh pressure on the Sri Lankan batting lineup.
Pakistan Finished the Job
Dasun Shanaka added 28 runs from 18 balls, attempting to accelerate the chase. But Pakistan continued taking wickets and prevented Sri Lanka from reaching the target.
The visitors were eventually bowled out for 268 in 48.1 overs. Pakistan secured a 37-run victory after a competitive batting and bowling display.
Pakistan’s Bowling Performance
Pakistan’s bowling attack played a major role in securing the victory. Defending 305 runs, the bowlers needed to take wickets and prevent Sri Lanka from establishing long partnerships.
Shaheen Shah Afridi Led the Attack
Shaheen Shah Afridi delivered an important performance, picking up three wickets for 55 runs in his 10 overs.
Naseem Shah also bowled effectively, taking two wickets for 43 runs. His disciplined bowling helped Pakistan maintain pressure during the middle overs.
Haris Rauf claimed two wickets for 48 runs in 9.1 overs, while Faheem Ashraf also picked up two wickets for 49 runs.
Pakistan’s Fast Bowlers Dominated
One of the most impressive aspects of Pakistan’s bowling performance was that the pace attack took all ten Sri Lankan wickets.
The bowlers worked together to prevent Sri Lanka from completing the chase. Even when Pavan Rathnayake and Janith Liyanage built a strong partnership, Pakistan continued looking for breakthroughs.
Shaheen Afridi’s leadership and the combined efforts of Naseem Shah, Haris Rauf, and Faheem Ashraf helped Pakistan defend their total.
This bowling performance was a major reason behind Pakistan’s opening-match victory.
Turning Points of the Match
The Pakistan vs Sri Lanka first ODI included several important moments that influenced the final result.
1. Salman Ali Agha’s Century
Salman’s 107 runs from 90 deliveries gave Pakistan the foundation for a competitive total. His innings was the biggest individual contribution of the match.
2. Babar Azam and Saad Baig’s Contributions
Babar scored 45 runs, while Saad Baig added 39. Their contributions helped Pakistan maintain a strong batting position.
3. The 119-Run Partnership
Pavan Rathnayake and Janith Liyanage added 119 runs for the fifth wicket. This partnership brought Sri Lanka back into the contest and created pressure for Pakistan.
4. Breaking the Partnership
Pakistan’s bowlers eventually dismissed Rathnayake and Liyanage. These breakthroughs were crucial because Sri Lanka had started building momentum.
5. Shaheen Afridi’s Three Wickets
Shaheen’s three wickets helped Pakistan control the lower order. His bowling performance played a significant role in restricting Sri Lanka to 268 runs.
Player of the Match – Salman Ali Agha
Salman Ali Agha was named Player of the Match after delivering an outstanding batting performance against Sri Lanka.
He scored 107 runs from 90 balls, including ten fours and one six. His innings helped Pakistan reach 305 runs in their allotted 50 overs.
Salman showed excellent control throughout his innings. He rotated the strike, found gaps in the field, and attacked loose deliveries when opportunities appeared.
His century was particularly important because Pakistan needed a major contribution from the middle order to establish a strong total.
This was also his fourth ODI century, making the performance another significant milestone in his international career.
His innings ultimately helped Pakistan begin the tri-series with a victory.
Full Pakistan vs Sri Lanka 1st ODI Scorecard
The following tables provide the batting and bowling details from the match played on 18 October 2026.
Pakistan Innings – 305 All Out (49.5 Overs)
| Batter | Runs | Balls |
|---|---|---|
| Fakhar Zaman | 16 | 19 |
| Saim Ayub | 7 | 8 |
| Babar Azam | 45 | 57 |
| Saad Baig | 39 | 40 |
| Salman Ali Agha | 107 | 90 |
| Hasan Nawaz | 37 | 49 |
| Arafat Minhas | 18 | 15 |
| Faheem Ashraf | 6 | 6 |
| Shaheen Shah Afridi | 13* | 12 |
| Naseem Shah | 0 | 1 |
| Haris Rauf | 0 | 4 |
| Extras | 17 | — |
| Total | 305 | 49.5 overs |
Sri Lanka Bowling Figures
| Bowler | Overs | Runs | Wickets |
|---|---|---|---|
| Asitha Fernando | 10 | 59 | 3 |
| Dilshan Madushanka | 10 | 67 | 2 |
| Dasun Shanaka | 7 | 41 | 0 |
| Eshan Malinga | 9.5 | 46 | 4 |
| Sachindu Colombage | 10 | 61 | 0 |
| Kamindu Mendis | 2 | 19 | 0 |
| Sahan Arachchige | 1 | 8 | 0 |
Sri Lanka Innings – 268 All Out (48.1 Overs)
| Batter | Runs | Balls |
|---|---|---|
| Kamindu Mendis | 44 | 50 |
| Avishka Fernando | 5 | 9 |
| Kusal Mendis | 18 | 34 |
| Pavan Rathnayake | 79 | 74 |
| Sahan Arachchige | 3 | 5 |
| Janith Liyanage | 60 | 74 |
| Dasun Shanaka | 28 | 18 |
| Sachindu Colombage | 1 | 4 |
| Eshan Malinga | 2 | 6 |
| Asitha Fernando | 7 | 10 |
| Dilshan Madushanka | 1* | 5 |
| Extras | 20 | — |
| Total | 268 | 48.1 overs |
Pakistan Bowling Figures
| Bowler | Overs | Runs | Wickets |
|---|---|---|---|
| Shaheen Shah Afridi | 10 | 55 | 3 |
| Naseem Shah | 10 | 43 | 2 |
| Haris Rauf | 9.1 | 48 | 2 |
| Faheem Ashraf | 8 | 49 | 2 |
| Arafat Minhas | 9 | 56 | 0 |
| Saim Ayub | 2 | 14 | 0 |
Key Highlights and Records
Here are the most important performances and statistics from the opening ODI:
- Pakistan scored 305 runs in 49.5 overs.
- Sri Lanka scored 268 runs in 48.1 overs.
- Pakistan won by 37 runs.
- Salman Ali Agha scored 107 runs from 90 balls.
- Babar Azam contributed 45 runs.
- Saad Baig scored 39 runs.
- Pavan Rathnayake scored 79 runs.
- Janith Liyanage scored 60 runs.
- Eshan Malinga claimed four wickets.
- Shaheen Shah Afridi took three wickets.
- Pakistan’s pace bowlers took all ten Sri Lankan wickets.
- Salman Ali Agha received the Player of the Match award.
The match also featured an important 119-run partnership between Pavan Rathnayake and Janith Liyanage. Their effort kept Sri Lanka’s hopes alive, but Pakistan’s bowlers eventually took control.
What This Victory Means for Pakistan
Pakistan’s victory over Sri Lanka gave the hosts a positive beginning to the 2026/27 ODI tri-series.
The tournament also features England, making it an important opportunity for all three teams to test their combinations and performances in 50-over cricket.
Pakistan’s opening victory provided confidence to the squad. Salman Ali Agha’s century demonstrated the strength of the middle order, while the fast bowlers showed their ability to defend a competitive total.
Sri Lanka, meanwhile, had some encouraging individual performances. Pavan Rathnayake and Janith Liyanage showed that the batting lineup could challenge Pakistan’s bowling attack.
Pakistan’s next match in the tri-series was scheduled against England on 20 October 2026, while Sri Lanka were scheduled to face England on 22 October.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Who won the Pakistan vs Sri Lanka 1st ODI in 2026?
Pakistan won the opening ODI against Sri Lanka by 37 runs on 18 October 2026.
2. What was Pakistan’s score in the first ODI?
Pakistan scored 305 runs before being bowled out in 49.5 overs.
3. How many runs did Salman Ali Agha score?
Salman Ali Agha scored 107 runs from 90 deliveries, including ten fours and one six.
4. How many wickets did Shaheen Afridi take?
Shaheen Shah Afridi took three wickets for 55 runs in his 10 overs.
5. Where was the first ODI played?
The match was played at Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium in Rawalpindi, Pakistan.
6. Who was the Player of the Match?
Salman Ali Agha received the Player of the Match award for his century.
7. What was Sri Lanka’s final score?
Sri Lanka scored 268 runs before being bowled out in 48.1 overs.
Conclusion
The pak vs srilanka 1st odi highlights featured an exciting contest with outstanding batting and bowling performances. Pakistan recovered from early wickets and reached 305 runs, thanks mainly to Salman Ali Agha’s brilliant century.
Sri Lanka responded with determination, particularly through Pavan Rathnayake and Janith Liyanage. However, Pakistan’s fast bowlers delivered at crucial moments and restricted the visitors to 268 runs.
Pakistan eventually won the match by 37 runs and started the ODI tri-series with a valuable victory. Salman Ali Agha’s 107-run innings and Shaheen Afridi’s three wickets were among the biggest highlights of the match.
