Pakistan have qualified for the ODI tri-series final after three consecutive wins, while Sri Lanka look to strengthen their bid for the remaining spot.
LAHORE: Sri Lanka won the toss and elected to field against Pakistan in the fifth match of the ODI tri-series at Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore on Tuesday, with the hosts making two changes to their playing XI.
Pakistan captain Shaheen Shah Afridi said a total of 300 runs would be a good score on the pitch. Maaz Sadaqat and Naseem Shah have been included in the side as Pakistan look to extend their winning run ahead of the final.
Sri Lanka’s captain said the visitors would field an unchanged team as they aim to secure a victory and strengthen their chances of reaching the final.
Pakistan already through to the final
Pakistan have secured their place in the final after winning all three of their matches in the tournament. The hosts lead the points table with six points.
Pakistan began their campaign with a 37-run victory over Sri Lanka before recording an 87-run win against England. They then edged England by one wicket in their latest match on Sunday, maintaining their unbeaten record in the competition.
The hosts will now aim to continue their winning streak in the remaining league fixture before the final on Oct. 31.
With qualification already secured, Pakistan can use the match to build momentum and maintain their form ahead of the title decider.
Sri Lanka fight for remaining final spot
Sri Lanka enter the match in second place in the standings with two points from two matches. They lost their opening fixture against Pakistan before bouncing back with a two-wicket victory over England.
A win against Pakistan would strengthen Sri Lanka’s position in the race for the remaining place in the final. The visitors will be looking to improve their standing while keeping their hopes of reaching the title decider alive.
England remain at the bottom of the table without a point after losing all three of their matches. They are scheduled to face Sri Lanka in their final league fixture on Oct. 29.
The outcome of the Pakistan-Sri Lanka match could prove important in determining the second finalist, with Sri Lanka seeking a result that would improve their prospects before the concluding league fixture.
Pakistan, meanwhile, will look to preserve their unbeaten run and carry confidence into the final scheduled for Oct. 31.
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