Pakistan beat Sri Lanka by 37 runs in tri-nation series opener

RAWALPINDI: Pakistan defeated Sri Lanka by 37 runs in the opening match of the tri-nation ODI series in Rawalpindi on Sunday.

After winning the toss, Sri Lanka elected to field first. Pakistan were bowled out for 305 in 49.5 overs, with Salman Ali Agha delivering a standout performance with the bat.

Pakistan suffered an early setback when opener Saim Ayub was dismissed for seven runs, with the team's score at 23. Fakhar Zaman followed soon after, departing for 16.

Babar Azam was the third Pakistani batter to fall, scoring 45 runs before being dismissed at a total of 106.

Salman Ali Agha anchored Pakistan's innings with an impressive 107 off 90 balls, providing crucial runs to help the hosts post a competitive total.

Saad Baig contributed 39 runs, while Hasan Nawaz scored 37 and Arafat Minhas added 18.

Pakistan finished their innings at 305 all out in 49.5 overs, setting Sri Lanka a target of 306 runs.

The victory gives Pakistan a winning start to the tri-nation ODI series.