Pakistan U19 secured a six-wicket victory over Sri Lanka U19 in the third one-day match at the National Bank Stadium, Karachi, effectively taking a 2-1 lead in the five-match series.
Opening batter Shamyl Hussain scored a splendid 150, ensuring that the home side chased down the target of 290 with ease, requiring only 45.5 overs to achieve this.
After winning the toss, the visiting team opted to bat first, posting a total of 289 runs while losing nine wickets in 50 overs. Rusanda Gamage, who produced an outstanding century (110 runs from 127 balls with six boundaries), was the standout batter for the Sri Lankan side. Wicket-keeper-batter Sharujan Shanmuganathan contributed 61 runs from 75 deliveries.
The three Pakistani right-arm pacers had a successful day with the ball, with Aftab Ahmed taking three wickets, and Ubaid Shah and Mohammad Ibtisam both claiming two wickets.
During the pursuit of 290 runs, Shamyl's innings completely swung the game in Pakistan's favour. The left-hander scored 150 from 109 deliveries, hitting 13 boundaries and seven sixes. He received support from Riazullah Khan, who contributed 48 runs from 62 balls, including two boundaries. Arafat Minhas (34 not out from 35 balls with three boundaries and one six) and Haroon Arshad (27 not out from 39 balls with one boundary) completed the chase for their team, leading them to a six-wicket victory over the touring side.
The fourth one-day match is scheduled to take place on 29 October at the National Bank Stadium, Karachi.
Remember, Pakistan lost to Sri Lanka in first game but made a great comeback in the second.
Brief scores:
Pakistan U19 defeated Sri Lanka U19 by six wickets.
Sri Lanka U19 289-9 in 50 overs (Rusanda Gamage 110, Sharujan Shanmuganathan 61; Aftab Ahmed 3-31, Mohammad Ibtisam 2-60, Ubaid Shah 2-65).
Pakistan U19 293-4 in 45.5 overs (Shamyl Hussain 150, Riazullah Khan 48; Sineth Jayawardene 2-35, Ruvishan Perera 2-44).
Player of the match: Shamyl Hussain (Pakistan U19).