Pakistan Wins ODI Tri-Series Final Over Sri Lanka Behind Fakhar Zaman Century

Pakistan secured a thrilling three-wicket victory over Sri Lanka in the 2026 ODI Tri-Series final on Saturday at Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore, capturing their first home title in the format. Pakistan won the toss and elected to field, ultimately overcoming a competitive target of 326 runs with just nine balls to spare.

Sri Lanka posted a competitive total of 325/8 in their 50 overs, anchored by a strong performance from Kamindu Mendis, who scored 90 runs off 96 deliveries. Avishka Fernando contributed 38 runs to the opening stand, while Pavan Rathnayake added late-innings momentum. Pakistan's bowling attack worked to contain the visitors, with Salman Agha claiming key breakthroughs.

In response, Pakistan's chase suffered early setbacks during the powerplay when bowler Dilshan Madushanka dismissed Maaz Sadaqat and Babar Azam cheaply. However, opening batsman Fakhar Zaman mounted a commanding counter-attack, smashing his 12th ODI century to stabilize the innings.

Zaman played a pivotal role by scoring 127 runs from 99 balls, anchoring a crucial 149-run third-wicket partnership alongside Saad Baig. Baig provided strong support with a fluent 74 runs off 75 deliveries before being caught and bowled by Maheesh Theekshana. Following Zaman's dismissal, Arafat Minhas contributed a rapid 61 runs off just 31 balls to keep the required run rate under control.

The match reached a tense climax in the 48th over when Asitha Fernando claimed consecutive wickets, dismissing both Minhas and Faheem Ashraf. Despite the late drama, Shaheen Afridi sealed the tri-series final victory in style by launching Dilshan Madushanka for a massive six over mid-wicket on his second ball.

The victory marks a historic milestone for Pakistan, ending a previous home tri-series drought that included runner-up finishes against Australia in 1994, Sri Lanka in 2004, and New Zealand the previous year. After rebounding from a group-stage loss to Sri Lanka, the hosts delivered when it mattered most to claim the 2026 trophy.

Fakhar Zaman was named Player of the Match for his outstanding century, while Arafat Minhas earned Man of the Series honors after accumulating 149 runs and taking 9 wickets throughout the tournament.