Karachi: Sri Lanka U19 secured victory against Pakistan U19 in the fourth One-Day International (ODI) match by three wickets, leveling the series at 2-2.
In the first ODI, Sri Lanka U19 won by 58 runs. Pakistan U19 then bounced back in the second ODI, winning by 59 runs. Pakistan U19 also claimed victory in the third ODI by six wickets.
In Sunday’s match played at the National Bank Stadium in Karachi, Sri Lanka U19 won the toss and elected to bat first. Pakistan U19 set a target of 186 runs, being all-out after 43.1 overs. Sri Lanka U19 successfully chased the target in 40.4 overs, losing seven wickets.
Shahzaib Khan was the standout performer for Pakistan U19, scoring 80 runs off 111 balls, including 4 boundaries and 3 sixes. Captain Saad Baig contributed 45 runs with the help of 3 boundaries.
Riaz Allah, a key batsman for the host team, sustained an injury while taking a run and couldn’t play in the final ODI.
From the guest team, leg-spinner Malsha Tharupathi was the star performer, taking 4 wickets for just 17 runs. Ravi Shan Perera also dismissed two players.
In Sri Lanka U19’s innings, Dinura Kalu Pahana scored 61 runs with the help of 5 boundaries and 1 six, while Rosanda Gamage contributed 46 runs with 2 boundaries. Tharupathi played a crucial role, not only with her excellent bowling but also by scoring 20 runs with 3 boundaries to secure the victory.
For Pakistan U19, Aftab Ahmed took 3 wickets, giving away 23 runs.
Brief Score:
Pakistan U19: 186 runs (43.1 overs)
Top Scorers: Shahzaib Khan 80, Saad Baig 45, Tharupathi 4/17
Sri Lanka U19: 189 runs for 7 wickets (40.4 overs)
Top Scorers: Dinura Kalu Pahana 61, Rosanda Gamage 46, Aftab Ahmed 23/3 Wickets