Fakhar Zaman’s century powers Pakistan to tri‑series final win over Sri Lanka

Zaman’s 127‑run knock, despite a bruised knee, helped Pakistan chase 326 for the title on Saturday.

By Felo News Desk · Published Sat, 31 Oct 2026 19:54:07 GMT

Pakistan defeated Sri Lanka by three wickets in the one‑day international tri‑series final at Lahore’s Gaddafi Stadium on Saturday, with Fakhar Zaman scoring a 127‑run century despite a bruised knee, according to Al Jazeera and Times Now News.

What happened

Sri Lanka posted 325‑8 after Kamindu Mendis’ maiden ODI century of 131 runs. Pakistan’s chase began shakily, losing Maaz Sadaqat for five and Babar Azam for a five‑ball duck. Zaman, who had managed only 31 runs in his previous four innings, partnered with 19‑year‑old Saad Baig, who contributed 74 off 75 balls, to build a 149‑run stand. Arafat Minhas added a rapid 61 off 31 balls, and the pair of Minhas and Hasan Nawaz (37 not out) steered Pakistan to 331‑7 in 48.3 overs, securing the win with 106 runs still required when Zaman was dismissed.

What the reports add

Al Jazeera noted that the Sri Lankan bowlers struggled to control a wet ball because of dew, and highlighted that Sri Lanka’s Maheesh Theekshana missed two catch opportunities at 69 and 106, both of Zaman’s wickets. Times Now News added that Dilshan Madushanka, who had taken five wickets in Sri Lanka’s earlier win over Pakistan, claimed three for 63 in the final and bowled Zaman clean in the 34th over. Both outlets reported the same attendance figure of 31,265 spectators.

What was said

Al Jazeera quoted the match commentary describing Zaman’s innings as “entertaining” and noted his 99‑ball knock included 11 fours and six sixes. Times Now News quoted the same match report from the Associated Press, stating that Zaman “proved how big a match‑winner he is for the Men in Green.” No direct quotes from players or officials were provided in the sources.

How it came about

Pakistan entered the final after a mixed series, having lost to Sri Lanka in the opening match (Oct 18) and later clinching narrow victories over England (Oct 25). The team’s momentum was boosted by earlier performances from Salman Ali Agha and Shaheen Afridi, while Babar Azam’s six‑hitting drought persisted (Oct 27). Zaman’s century in the final marked a turnaround from his recent low scores and injury‑affected form.