Sri Lanka captain Kusal Mendis says his team is well prepared and determined to deliver a strong performance against Pakistan in Saturday’s ODI tri-series final at the Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore.
Speaking ahead of the final, Mendis acknowledged Pakistan’s recent performances but expressed confidence in Sri Lanka’s preparations.
“The final is a big game for us. Pakistan have played good cricket in their recent matches. We are well prepared and looking forward to the final,” Mendis said.
Sri Lanka will enter the title clash with confidence after recording a convincing eight-wicket victory over Pakistan in their previous encounter on Tuesday.
In that match, left-arm pacer Dilshan Madushanka produced an outstanding bowling performance, taking five wickets for just 34 runs as Pakistan were dismissed for 110.
Sri Lanka comfortably chased down the target in 18.1 overs, with Kamindu Mendis scoring an unbeaten 62 to secure their place in the final.
“We played really well against Pakistan in our previous encounter. We have done several things right and are focused on following our processes and sticking to our basic plans,” the Sri Lankan captain said.
Sri Lanka also produced one of the highlights of the tournament with a remarkable eight-wicket victory over England in Rawalpindi, successfully chasing a target of 430 runs, the second-highest successful run chase in men’s ODI history.
Pavan Rathnayake has been among Sri Lanka’s standout performers during the tournament, while the team’s batting depth and recent bowling performances have provided encouragement ahead of the final.
Pakistan, meanwhile, were the first team to qualify for the final after registering three consecutive victories, including two wins over England and one against Sri Lanka.
However, their eight-wicket defeat to Sri Lanka in the final league encounter has added further interest to Saturday’s title clash.
Pakistan captain Shaheen Shah Afridi said his side would need to improve in certain areas, particularly top-order batting and building partnerships.
Pakistan head coach Mike Hesson also admitted that his team had yet to produce its best cricket in the tournament and expressed hope that it would come in the final.
Mendis, meanwhile, expressed appreciation for the support Sri Lanka have received both at home and in Pakistan.
“Everyone in Sri Lanka is very happy with our performances. Pakistan fans have also shown great support for Sri Lankan players, which is encouraging for us,” he said.
The final will begin at 1.30 p.m. Sri Lanka time on Saturday, with the toss scheduled for 1.00 p.m.
Sri Lanka will be looking to finish their tour with a trophy, while Pakistan will be aiming to secure their first ODI tri-series title on home soil. (Newswire)