Farhan, bowlers shine as Pakistan take 1-0 lead

Pakistan secured a 1-0 lead in the three-match T20I series with a convincing six-wicket victory over Sri Lanka in Dambulla. After winning the toss and bowling, Pakistan dismantled Sri Lanka for 128. A composed half-century from opener Sahibzada Farhan anchored the chase, reaching the target with 20 balls to spare.

Sri Lanka's innings never found rhythm, losing wickets regularly. Kamil Mishara fell for a duck in the third over. Shadab Khan, marking his return, removed Kusal Mendis (14) and Dhananjaya de Silva (10) in the same over. Charith Asalanka provided a brief spark before falling for 18.

Janith Liyanage offered lone resistance with a gritty 40 off 31 balls. Abrar Ahmed was the pick of the bowlers, taking 3 for 25, while Salman Mirza also claimed three wickets. Sri Lanka was bowled out for 128 in 19.2 overs.

In response, Pakistan's openers provided a blistering start. Sahibzada Farhan and Saim Ayub put on a rapid 55-run stand within the PowerPlay. Farhan was particularly aggressive, launching two sixes in an over. Although Sri Lanka struck back with wickets, including Farhan for 51 off 33 balls, Shadab Khan and Usman Khan calmly guided Pakistan to 129/4 in 16.4 overs.

Farhan's 51 earned him Player of the Match honours.

Brief scores: Sri Lanka 128 all out in 19.2 overs (Janith Liyanage 40; Abrar Ahmed 3/25, Salman Mirza 3/28) lost to Pakistan 129/4 in 16.4 overs (Sahibzada Farhan 51, Saim Ayub 24) by 6 wickets.

The teams meet again at the same venue for the second T20I.