Sri Lanka avoid whitewash with 8-wicket win over Pakistan in 3rd T20I at Rawalpindi

Sri Lanka ended the three-match T20I series on a high note, beating Pakistan by 8 wickets in the 3rd T20I at Rawalpindi on October 13, 2026. Chasing 169, Sri Lanka reached the target with 17 balls remaining, securing a consolation win that prevented a series sweep. Pakistan, however, clinched the series 2-1.

Kusal Mendis was the centrepiece of the chase, striking 87 off 48 balls with 9 fours and 4 sixes at a strike rate of 181.25. Sineth Jayawardena gave him excellent company at the top, contributing 38 off 26 balls including 5 fours and 2 sixes. The only setback for Sri Lanka came early when Lahiru Udara was given out LBW off Imran Randhawa's bowling, with the visitors choosing not to use the review despite replays suggesting the decision was questionable. Kamindu Mendis then joined Kusal Mendis and added 40 off 27 balls, hitting 4 fours, to put the result beyond doubt.

Earlier, Dasun Shanaka led Sri Lanka's bowling effort with figures of 3 for 21. Eshan Malinga and Nuwan Thushara each picked up 2 wickets as Pakistan were restricted to 168 for 8. Sahibzada Farhan was the lone bright spot for the hosts, scoring 76 off 47 balls with 7 fours and 3 sixes. Arafat Minhas contributed 34, and no other Pakistan batter managed to cross 20.

Sri Lanka made one change to their playing XI for the match, bringing in Vijayakanth Viyaskanth in place of Maheesh Theekshana. Viyaskanth bowled his full quota of 4 overs, conceding 23 runs and taking 1 wicket while operating at speeds between 90 and 100 kph. The selection gave Sri Lanka a different bowling dimension as they sought to close the series with a positive performance.

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The change reflected Sri Lanka's intent to test their squad depth ahead of future assignments, with the team management opting for variety in their attack rather than relying solely on established names. This win will give Sri Lanka some confidence heading into the two-match Test series.