RAWALPINDI (Kashmir English): Sri Lanka delivered one of the greatest run-chase performances in One-Day International (ODI) cricket at the Pindi Cricket Stadium here on Thursday, securing a thrilling 2-wicket victory by chasing down England’s mountain-like target of 430 runs.
In this Tri-Series game, both teams scored 859 runs collectively. Sri Lanka scored 430 runs for 8 wickets in 49.5 overs to complete the highest successful ODI chase ever in Pakistan and the second-highest chase in men’s ODI history.
This magnificent victory eclipsed English captain Harry Brook’s record innings of 202 runs off 116 balls, which had helped England propel to 429-4 in the allotted 50 overs.
Sri Lanka’s extraordinary chase surpassed India’s successful chase of 418 runs against West Indies in Guwahati in 2023.
According to cricket records, only South Africa’s 438-run chase against Australia in Johannesburg in 2006 stands above this in successful ODI chases.
The foundation of the victory was laid by Pawan Ratnayake, Avishka Fernando, and Dasun Shanaka, before Liyanage delivered the final blow in the final moments.
Brook’s record double century in England-Sri Lanka game
Earlier, captain Brook had put England in a strong position by playing a sensational innings of 202 runs off 116 balls, including 21 fours and 10 sixes.
The England captain set a new record for the fastest double century in men’s ODI cricket by scoring 202 runs in just 114 balls.
He also became the first England batter to score a double century in this format.
This thrilling match will be remembered not only for Brook’s record-breaking innings but also for Sri Lanka’s extraordinary response.
By chasing 430 runs, the visiting team achieved a historic victory and set a new benchmark for successful ODI run chases in Pakistan.
