Sri Lanka secured their place in the tri-series final after dismantling Pakistan by eight wickets in Lahore, a result that simultaneously ended England's mathematical chances of reaching the showpiece match. According to The Guardian, the emphatic victory demonstrated Sri Lanka's dominance in the tournament.
Pakistan's collapse was swift and comprehensive, with the home side restricted to 110 all out. Dilshan Madushanka delivered a career-defining performance, claiming five for 34—his best figures in one-day international cricket. The bowling display dismantled Pakistan's batting order, leaving them unable to mount any meaningful resistance.
This defeat came after Shadab Khan's unbeaten century had guided Pakistan to a one-wicket victory over England, a result that had briefly kept the hosts' final hopes alive. However, the subsequent loss to Sri Lanka has now rendered England's participation in the final impossible, regardless of their remaining matches.
Sri Lanka's chase proved straightforward, with the visitors overhauling Pakistan's target in just 18 overs, finishing with more than 31 overs unused. This commanding performance secured their progression to the final scheduled for Saturday.
What comes next for England?
England will face Sri Lanka in a dead-rubber encounter on Thursday at the Gaddafi Stadium. The squad have described themselves as 'gutted' following recent defeats, though the remaining match offers an opportunity to build momentum before the upcoming international schedule.
