Sri Lanka end England hopes with crushing win over Pakistan

LAHORE: Following Shadab Khan's remarkable performance against England, unbeaten Pakistan aims to carry their winning streak into the fifth ODI against Sri Lanka at Gaddafi Stadium. Securing their spot in Saturday's final after three consecutive wins, the match provides captain Shaheen Shah Afridi's side a chance to test their batting lineup and address concerns before the title decider.

Sri Lanka, meanwhile, seeks to bolster their position after defeating England by two wickets in the series. A win on Tuesday would secure their spot in the final alongside Pakistan, while a Pakistan victory would keep England's hopes alive for their final league match against Sri Lanka on Thursday. The hosts entered the contest following a dramatic victory, chasing England's 242 for 154-9, with Shadab Khan scoring an unbeaten 113 off 96 balls to secure a one-wicket win.

Shadab's partnership of 89 runs with Haris Rauf remains the highest 10th-wicket partnership in an ODI chase, surpassing the previous record. Shadab acknowledged his recent struggles but emphasized his determination to improve. Haris Rauf also contributed significantly to the partnership. Pakistan's top order showed vulnerabilities, with Saim Ayub being released from the squad and replaced by Haris.

The team will be looking for improved consistency from Babar Azam and Fakhar Zaman. Pakistan has historically held a strong advantage in ODI head-to-head encounters, with 97 wins compared to Sri Lanka's 59. Pakistan's fast bowler Shaheen has taken seven wickets in three matches, becoming the fastest Pakistan bowler to reach 150 ODI wickets.