Kamindu Mendis Smashes Maiden ODI Century as Sri Lanka Set Pakistan 326-Run Target

Kamindu Mendis Leads Sri Lanka's Strong Batting Display

Sri Lanka scored 325 runs for eight wickets in 50 overs against Pakistan in the ODI tri-series final at Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore on Saturday.

Kamindu Mendis delivered an outstanding performance, scoring 131 runs to register his maiden century in One Day Internationals. His innings included 12 fours and two sixes, providing Sri Lanka with a strong platform.

Mendis and Rathnayake Build Crucial Partnership

Kamindu Mendis shared a 146-run partnership with Pavan Rathnayake, who contributed 77 runs.

The pair strengthened Sri Lanka's position after the early dismissal of Avishka Fernando, who scored 38. Pakistan later removed Kusal Mendis for eight, but Sri Lanka continued to build its total through the middle overs.

Shaheen Shah Afridi eventually dismissed Kamindu for 131, ending his impressive innings.

Pakistan Fight Back in Final Overs

Pakistan's bowlers made an important recovery towards the end of the innings, taking six wickets in the final 10 overs to prevent Sri Lanka from reaching an even bigger total.

Salman Ali Agha claimed two wickets, while Haris Rauf and Naseem Shah also contributed to the late breakthrough.

Pakistan Face 326-Run Chase

Sri Lanka finished at 325/8, setting Pakistan a target of 326 to win the tri-series final.

Pakistan had won the toss and elected to field first. The home side now faced the challenge of chasing a substantial target to secure the trophy in front of the Lahore crowd.