SL falls short by 7 runs in 1st ODI 🏏

Sri Lanka faces a must-win situation going into the second ODI against Pakistan in Rawalpindi tomorrow, after narrowly losing the first match by just 7 runs while chasing a target of 300. • Missed Opportunities: Crucial fielding errors plagued SL's bowling effort. They burnt both DRS reviews by the 11th over, which led to a costly missed LBW decision against Hussain Talat (on 0). Talat subsequently anchored a match-winning 138-run partnership, helping Pakistan post a challenging 299/5. • Batting Collapse: Despite a strong 85-run opening start by Pathum Nissanka and debutant Kamil Mishara, SL slumped quickly to 90-3 following a sensational spell by Haris Rauf. • Failed Finish: Despite being marginally ahead as late as the 47th over, SL failed to close out the game. Poor shot selection, notably an unnecessary slog by Captain Charith Asalanka, cost the team crucial momentum and wickets. • Individual Effort: Wanindu Hasaranga hit a vital half-century, keeping hopes alive until the final over, but ultimately the team's inability to seize control in key moments resulted in the narrow defeat.