Pakistan recorded the highest successful chase in the history of the Cricket World Cup when they defeated Sri Lanka by six wickets.
Centuries from Kusal Mendis (122) and Sadeera Samarawickrama (108) helped Sri Lanka to a total of 344 for nine. But Pakistan’s Abdullah Shafique (113) and Mohammad Rizwan (131 not out) scored centuries to give their team their second successive tournament victory.
Sri Lanka’s opener Pathum Nissanka scored 51 off 61 deliveries, making up for the withdrawal of partner Kusal Perera. Nissanka’s quick half-century game set the stage for a great drive by Sri Lanka, scoring seven fours and a six.
Wicketkeeper Mendis and No.4 Samarawickrama were also in top form. The former reached his hundred off just 65 balls in an innings that contained 14 fours and six sixes.
Sarmarawickrama reached his milestone in 82 balls and Sri Lanka eventually reached 344 with Hasan Ali claiming four wickets.
The Pakistani struggle started through Shafique. The 113 runs he managed in 103 balls gave his team the impetus they needed in the face of such a huge total.
Dilshan Madushanka looked to disrupt proceedings when he dismissed Imam-ul-Haq and captain Babar Azam early before Rizwan’s performance earned his side promotion.
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Rizwan, who hit 11 boundaries, rounded off a remarkable match by scoring the winning runs to secure a historic win.
