Sri Lanka captain Mendis and Shanaka deny Pakistan clean sweep in T20 series

Sri Lankan captain Kusal Mendis showcased an impressive unbeaten 87 off 48 balls to secure a much-needed eight-wicket consolation win for his team against Pakistan in the third T20 International at Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium. Chasing 169, Sri Lanka finished the match with a score of 172-2 in 17.1 overs, with Kusal and his nephew Kamindu Mendis combining for an unbroken partnership of 98 runs to complete the chase 17 balls short.

Kamindu remained unbeaten at 40 off 27 deliveries, contributing four fours to the innings. The victory marked Sri Lanka's winning note in the series after Pakistan had won the first two matches. Kusal's innings included nine fours and four sixes, highlighting his dominance and ability to exploit gaps in the field. Pakistan's early setback came when Lahiru Udara was dismissed for one by Imran Randhawa, but Sineth Jayawardena and Kusal quickly turned the tide.

Jayawardena and Kusal's unbroken partnership saw Sri Lanka's run rate rise above 10 runs per over, making it difficult for Pakistan to keep up. Despite Pakistan's efforts, including a strong half-century from captain Sahibzada Farhan, the team failed to match Sri Lanka's clinical chase.