Pakistan’s national cricket team secured a dramatic three-wicket victory over Sri Lanka in the final of the One-Day International (ODI) tri-series at Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore on Saturday, earning their first home tri-series title. The team successfully chased a challenging target of 326 runs with nine balls to spare.

The win was propelled by a standout performance from veteran opener Fakhar Zaman, who scored an impressive 127 runs off 99 balls, including 11 boundaries and six sixes. Fakhar’s innings set the foundation for Pakistan’s successful chase. He was supported notably by young wicketkeeper-batsman Saad Baig, who contributed 74 runs in a 149-run partnership that stabilized Pakistan’s innings early on.

After Fakhar’s dismissal, the match remained finely poised until emerging players Arafat Minhas and Hasan Nawaz delivered a crucial 94-run partnership. Minhas struck a rapid 61 runs off 31 deliveries, while Hasan remained unbeaten on 37, guiding Pakistan over the finish line.

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif publicly congratulated the team for their performance, calling the victory “historic” and emphasizing the determination displayed by the players. Speaking on X, he singled out Fakhar Zaman’s century and the key partnership between the young talents Arafat Minhas and Hasan Nawaz. Sharif also extended his appreciation to the coaching staff, Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Chairman Mohsin Naqvi, and the supporters who backed the team throughout the tournament.

The victory marks a notable achievement for Pakistan cricket, as it represents the country’s first ODI tri-series title won on home soil, highlighting both the experience of senior players and the potential of emerging talent in the squad.