COLOMBO: Pakistan’s cricket team secured a convincing 140-run victory over hosts Sri Lanka in the Physical Disability Champions Trophy in Colombo on Monday.

Wicketkeeper-opener Saifullah Achakzai stole the show with a blistering 93 off 68 deliveries, featuring eight fours and five sixes. Mohammad Noman contributed 49 off 33 balls, while Ghulam Muhammad chipped in with 27 off 12.

Pakistan posted 209-3 in 20 overs, before bundling out Sri Lanka for 69 in 15.4 overs. Ghulam and Waqif Shah claimed three wickets each, conceding just seven and nine runs, respectively.

Saifullah’s explosive innings earned him the man-of-the-match award. The victory marks Pakistan’s first win in the tournament, following a defeat to India.

Published in Dawn, January 14th, 2025