LAHORE (Dunya News) – Pakistan and Sri Lanka will face each other in the final of the three-nation One-Day International (ODI) series at Lahore's Gaddafi Stadium today, with both teams aiming to lift the trophy. The final is scheduled to begin at 1pm.
Ahead of the final, captains of both teams participated in a trophy photoshoot at Governor House Lahore. Pakistan will be led by Shaheen Shah Afridi, while Kusal Mendis will captain the Sri Lankan side.
Pakistan defeated England in both their encounters and secured one victory against Sri Lanka during the tri-nation series. The Green Shirts are now focused on winning their first ODI tri-series trophy on home soil.
Salman Ali Agha is Pakistan's leading batter in the tournament with 158 runs. In the bowling department, Arafat Minhas has taken nine wickets in four matches, while Shaheen Shah Afridi has claimed eight wickets.
Speaking ahead of the final, Pakistan captain Shaheen Shah Afridi said the team had performed well but still needed improvement in certain areas. He stressed the need for the top order to score runs and build substantial partnerships.
He said cricket fans had always extended strong support to the national team and expressed hope that a large number of spectators would turn up at the stadium to cheer for Pakistan.
The national team captain expressed confidence that Pakistan would deliver a good performance in the final.
Meanwhile, Sri Lankan captain Kusal Mendis also expressed determination to win the title, describing the final as a major and important match for his team.
He said Sri Lanka had prepared thoroughly for the contest and was looking forward to the match. Mendis acknowledged that Pakistan had played good cricket in recent matches, adding that his team had also performed well in its previous encounter against Pakistan.
He further said people in Sri Lanka were very happy with the team's performances.
Commenting on the support received in Pakistan, the Sri Lankan captain said Pakistani cricket fans had shown tremendous encouragement and support for Sri Lankan players.