Mathews’ Cameo Helps Sri Lanka To A Thrilling Win

Angelo Mathews has made a habit of pulling out improbable chases with the tailenders. Aided by the largesse of the Pakistani fielders, and timely contribution from Jeevan Mendis, the Sri Lankan allrounder scored fifteen runs off the last over from Sami to chase down a stiff target. The victory means the Lankans win the series 3-1.

After winning the toss, Pakistan chose to bat first. The early loss of Hafeez was offset by good partnership between Farhat and Azhar Ali. Handy contributions from the rest of the middle order meant the Pakistani's reached 247 in their quota of overs. Umar Akmal and Farhat both scored half centuries. Barring Jeevan Mendis and Mathews none of the bowlers had much of a control on the batsmen, the star of the series so far - Thissara Perera going for close to seven runs an over.

Sri Lanka had a poor start with both Dilshan and Tharanga departing early. Sangakkara and Chandimal however resurrected the innings but Jayawardena got dismissed for a golden duck. The innings looked to have got completely derailed when the sixth wicket of Perera went down at 138. However, Mathews was still there at the crease and as always was plotting a comeback in the company of the tailenders. The absence of the rested Ajmal hurt the bowling side as Mathews kept whittling the target down with smart batting and running between the wickets. With fifteen needed off the final six balls, Mathews carted Sami for a couple of braces, a six and a four to relegate Pakistan to another demoralising defeat.