Pakistan and Sri Lanka faced off in the first T20I of their series in Rawalpindi, with Maheesh Theekshana producing a crucial moment during Pakistan’s chase. The Sri Lankan spinner bowled Saim Ayub in the 16th over, briefly giving the visitors hope of defending their total after Pakistan’s batters had made a flying start. Pakistan eventually reached 187/6 to secure a four-wicket victory, but Theekshana’s delivery stood out as one of Sri Lanka’s notable moments with the ball.

Maheesh Theekshana beats Saim Ayub with a sharp off-break

The dismissal came on the second ball of the 16th over, when Theekshana bowled a good-length delivery that turned back into the left-handed batter. Ayub went onto the back foot and attempted to punch the ball, but a gap between his bat and pad allowed it to sneak through and hit the stumps.

Ayub departed for eight off five deliveries, having struck one boundary. The delivery was similar to the one that had dismissed Maaz Sadaqat earlier, showcasing Theekshana’s ability to exploit the turn and beat batters through the gate. The wicket briefly lifted Sri Lanka’s hopes of putting pressure on Pakistan, although the hosts remained in control of the chase.

Here’s the video:

NO LOOK BOY Clean bowled for 8 off 5 balls. 🙁 pic.twitter.com/eOgvFqNGx7

— Mian Ahmad (@MianAhmad_56) October 9, 2026

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Sahibzada Farhan leads Pakistan to victory over Sri Lanka

Captain Sahibzada Farhan powered Pakistan’s chase, marking his new leadership role with an impressive 89 off 53 balls. He built a crucial 92-run partnership with Sadaqat, who scored a rapid 50 off 28 deliveries, after Fakhar Zaman provided an attacking start. Sri Lanka had posted 182/8 after being asked to bat first.

Lahiru Udara led their innings with an outstanding 91 off 55 balls, but a lack of substantial support from the other batters prevented the visitors from setting a bigger target. Mohammad Imran impressed on debut with figures of 2/21, while Naseem Shah claimed three wickets. Despite Theekshana’s breakthrough, Pakistan completed the chase at 187/6 to take a 1-0 lead in the series.

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