Pakistan captain Babar Azam grassed a straightforward catch in the final over of Sri Lanka’s innings, giving Wanindu Hasaranga a crucial lifeline during the 2nd ODI in Rawalpindi. The moment unfolded on the first ball of the 49th over when Naseem Shah bowled a slower short-of-length delivery. Hasaranga, attempting a loft down the ground, failed to generate any power, sending the ball straight towards long-on.
What should have been a routine dismissal turned into a costly miss as Babar got under the ball comfortably but shelled the regulation catch, allowing Sri Lanka to add two runs and maintain momentum in the closing stages.
Despite Pakistan’s chances to tighten the screws, Sri Lanka capitalised and ended on a competitive total of 288/8 in 50 overs, driven by key contributions across the batting order.
Sri Lanka’s innings summary
Sri Lanka’s 288/8 was built on several impactful knocks:
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Janith Liyanage top-scored with a solid 54 off 63 balls, stabilising the middle order.
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Sadeera Samarawickrama added a crucial 42 off 52, keeping the scoreboard moving.
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Kamindu Mendis smashed 44 off just 38 balls, injecting late momentum.
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Wanindu Hasaranga, aided by the dropped catch, finished unbeaten on 37 off 26, striking three fours and a six at a strike rate of 142.31.
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Pramod Madushan chipped in with 11 off 15*, ensuring Sri Lanka reached a strong finish.
Sri Lanka’s total also included 23 extras, with boundaries coming at important intervals.
Final score:
Sri Lanka – 288/8 (50 overs, RR: 5.76)
The dropped catch by Babar in the final over added valuable runs to Sri Lanka’s tally, potentially influencing the chase as Pakistan prepare to respond.
