Sri Lanka Complete Second-Highest Successful Run Chase in ODI History
In a historic Rawalpindi encounter on October 22, 2026, Sri Lanka achieved the second-highest successful run-chase in ODI history, stunning England by overhauling their 429/4 to win by two wickets with one ball to spare. Pavan Rathnayake's masterful 130 anchored the chase, supported by key innings from Avishka Fernando, Dasun Shanaka, and Janith Liyanage.
Rawalpindi witnessed an ODI classic on Thursday, October 22, 2026, as Sri Lanka completed a sensational chase against England, recording the second-highest successful run-chase in the history of One Day International cricket. England, after being put in to bat, posted a formidable 429/4 in their allotted 50 overs, only for Sri Lanka to respond with an astonishing 430/8 in 49.5 overs, securing a dramatic two-wicket victory. Harry Brook Smashes Fastest Double Century in ODI Cricket.
Sri Lanka Complete Second-Highest Successful Run Chase in ODI History
The third match of the Pakistan ODI Tri-Series 2026, held at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium, began at 1:00 PM PKT (GMT+5). England captain Harry Brook etched his name in the record books, smashing an unbeaten 202 runs off 116 deliveries, having reached his double century in just 114 balls, making it the fastest double century in men's ODI history. His blistering innings, adorned with 21 fours and 10 sixes, propelled England to what seemed an unassailable total. Contributions also came from Tom Banton (50 off 51 balls) and Will Jacks (66 not out).
Sri Lanka's Audacious Pursuit
Sri Lanka's chase started precariously, reeling at 24 for two. However, opener Pavan Rathnayake, who was later named Player of the Match, anchored the innings with a magnificent 130 runs off 106 balls, including 15 fours and 3 sixes. He forged a crucial 166-run partnership for the third wicket with Avishka Fernando, who contributed a vital 97 runs off 83 deliveries, featuring 11 fours and 2 sixes.
Following Fernando's dismissal, Dasun Shanaka joined Rathnayake, maintaining the relentless scoring rate with an explosive 97 runs off just 50 balls, studded with 6 fours and 8 sixes. Their 133-run stand off just 79 balls kept Sri Lanka firmly in the hunt. The tension mounted in the final overs, but Janith Liyanage held his nerve, crafting an unbeaten 61 off 27 balls, sealing the historic victory with a sensational six off the penultimate delivery of the match. Joe Root Becomes First England Batter To Score 8,000 Runs in ODI Cricket.
Key Match Statistics
| Statistic | Value |
|---|---|
| Match | 3rd ODI, Pakistan ODI Tri-Series 2026 |
| Date | October 22, 2026 |
| Venue | Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium, Rawalpindi |
| Toss | Sri Lanka won the toss and elected to field |
| Result | Sri Lanka won by 2 wickets |
| Highest ODI Chase | South Africa 438/9 vs Australia 434 (2006) |
| Match Aggregate | 859 runs (2nd highest in ODI history) |
Standout Performances
- Harry Brook (ENG): 202* runs off 116 balls (21 fours, 10 sixes)
- Pavan Rathnayake (SL): 130 runs off 106 balls (15 fours, 3 sixes)
- Avishka Fernando (SL): 97 runs off 83 balls (11 fours, 2 sixes)
- Dasun Shanaka (SL): 97 runs off 50 balls (6 fours, 8 sixes)
- Janith Liyanage (SL): 61* runs off 27 balls (7 fours, 3 sixes)
- Will Jacks (ENG): 66* runs (30 balls)
- Josh Tongue (ENG): 3 wickets for 79 runs
This incredible chase not only marks a significant milestone in ODI cricket but also provides a massive boost for Sri Lanka in the ongoing Tri-Series. The thrilling encounter will undoubtedly be remembered as one of the most remarkable matches in cricket history, showcasing the increasing dominance of bat over ball and the enduring spirit of competitive cricket.
(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Oct 23, 2026 09:44 AM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).