Pakistan bowled out for 110 as Sri Lanka storm into ODI tri-series final

Pakistan bowled out for 110 as Sri Lanka storm into ODI tri-series final

Sri Lanka booked their place in the ODI tri-series final with a commanding eight-wicket victory over Pakistan on Tuesday, eliminating England from contention ahead of Saturday’s decider.

After winning the toss, Sri Lankan captain Kusal Mendis opted to field, a decision that paid dividends as Pakistan were dismissed for just 110. Fast bowler Dilshan Madushanka spearheaded the attack with a career-best return of five wickets for 34 runs.

Sri Lanka made light work of the chase, reaching their target with more than 31 overs to spare. Kamindu Mendis led the way with an unbeaten 62 from 60 deliveries, striking eight fours and two sixes to guide his side home.

The left-hander survived an early reprieve after being dropped by the wicketkeeper before opening his account. He also successfully overturned an lbw decision on 44 after asking for a review, before bringing up his half-century with a pull shot over the boundary for six.

Kamindu had earlier benefited from another controversial moment involving a catch attempt, when substitute fielder Ghazi Ghori touched the boundary with his foot while completing the effort.

Sri Lanka will meet England at Gaddafi Stadium on Thursday, although the fixture will have no bearing on qualification for the final. Their next meaningful contest will come on Saturday, when they face Pakistan for the tournament trophy.

Pakistan had already secured their place in the showpiece match before Tuesday's defeat. They reached the final by beating England twice, including a dramatic one-wicket triumph on Sunday, and defeating Sri Lanka by 37 runs in the opening game of the competition. 

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