(Sports Correspondent: Imran Sohail)
Ton-Up Salman, Hussain Propel Pakistan to 299-5 in First ODI vs Sri Lanka
November 11, 2025
Rawalpindi: Pakistan staged a remarkable recovery in the first One-Day International against Sri Lanka on Tuesday, with Salman Ali Agha scoring a brilliant century and Hussain Talat making a career-best 62, lifting the hosts to 299-5 at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium.
After a shaky start at 95-4, Pakistan appeared under pressure against Wanindu Hasaranga’s leg-spin. Hasaranga had earlier spun a web with 3-54, removing key batsmen including Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan.
Salman and Hussain Lead the Revival
Salman and Hussain stitched together a 138-run partnership, rescuing Pakistan’s innings. Salman remained unbeaten on 105, hitting nine boundaries and two sixes, while Hussain showcased confidence with aggressive stroke play, reaching 62 off 53 balls for his first ODI fifty.
The partnership turned the tide, allowing Pakistan to accelerate in the later overs. Mohammad Nawaz provided finishing touches with a quickfire 36 not out, helping the team post a competitive total of 299-5.
Match Highlights
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Sri Lanka’s captain Charith Asalanka won the toss and elected to bowl.
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Pakistan’s innings initially struggled, with Saim Ayub, Fakhar Zaman, and Babar Azam dismissed cheaply.
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Salman’s timing and placement against Hasaranga and Theekshana brought Pakistan back into the game.
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The crowd roared as Pakistan passed 200 midway through the innings and later set Sri Lanka a target of exactly 300.
Looking Ahead
With Salman’s ton and Hussain’s career-best performance, Pakistan has given themselves a strong platform in the series opener. The hosts will look to maintain momentum as Sri Lanka chases 300 in what promises to be an exciting contest under the Rawalpindi floodlights.
