Babar’s century drought ends as Pakistan hammers SL: 2nd ODI (Rawalpindi)

Babar Azam anchored the chase with a well-paced century as Pakistan cruised to a comfortable eight-wicket victory over Sri Lanka in the 2nd ODI in Rawalpindi

Babar scored his first century in 2 years as Pakistan chased down the target of 289 with 10 balls to spare.

Sri Lanka had earlier posted 288/8, built around Janith Liyanage’s 54 and Kamindu Mendis’ 44, but regular wickets prevented them from pushing past 300. Pakistan’s bowlers, led by Haris Rauf and Abrar Ahmed with three wickets each, kept the visitors in check.

In response, Babar Azam produced a superb, controlled century—the 20th of his ODI career—guiding the chase with authority. Pakistan’s top order ensured there were no major hiccups as they sealed the series 2–0, extending their strong run at home despite the tense backdrop of heightened security in the region.

Pakistan 289 for 2 (Babar 102*, Fakhar 78, Rizwan 51*) beat Sri Lanka 288 for 8 (Liyanage 54, Abrar 3-41) by eight wickets.

Nov 2025