Kusal Mendis and Sadeera Samarawickrema fireworks count for nothing as the tail let’s Pakistan cruise past. – BY TREVINE RODRIGO IN MELBOURNE. (eLanka Sports editor)
Sri Lanka’s batting continues to flourish on the back of brilliant Kusal Mendis but they were unable to shake off a tenacious Pakistan who overhauled a competitive target to post a six wicket win.
Sri Lanka should have capitalised on a great start set up by Kusal Mendis and Sadeera Samarawickrema but the lower order buckled once more reaching 344 for 9 wickets in their 50 overs.
Pathum Nissanka was back in form while Kusal Perera failed again before Mendis and Samarawickrema took charge racing to centuries suggesting a winnable 400 run target. But the familiar sight of a limp tail resurfaced to see them fall well short of all expectations.
Pakistan were a dominant force allround, underlining why they were ranked number on in the world before the Asia Cup. They are still a force not to be written off easily as the battle for World Cup glory progresses.
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Sri Lanka’s bowling woes continued after a mauling against South Africa as Pakistan made it more evident that they cannot beat anyone with an ineffective line-up that holds no terrors. Only Dilshan Madushanka and to a lesser extent Maheesh Theeksheena, the latter returning from injury, have any reason to be happy with their input.
All the hard work of the batters were brought undone and unless it is addressed, they could now be in serious contention for early elimination.
Batting first Sri Lanka lost Kusal Perera early but rallied through Nissanka and Mendis, then Mendis and Samarawickrema smashed Pakistan’s attack to lift their spirits and promise of their first win.
Nissanka departed for 51 off 61 balls Kusal Mendis for the fastest century by a Sri Lankan at the World Cup 122 off 77 with 6 sixers and 14 fours, and Sadeera Samarawickrema 108 off 89 balls with 2 sixers and 14 fours.
Hasan Ali was Pakistan’s best with 4 for 71.
Abdullah Shafique led Pakistan’s run chase with a quick fire 113 off 103 balls, then Sri Lanka threatened, but Mohammad Rizwan had other ideas as he stemmed the rot with a masterly 131 off 121 to see them through with 10 balls to spare.
Sri Lanka will lament the lack of counter action and strategy to defend a reasonable total. Their game plan is under serious question.
Where to from here is troubling from a Sri Lankan perspective while Pakistan can build confidence about their chances to win this edition.
