RAWALPINDI, Pakistan — Pakistan top-order batter and captain Sahibzada Farhan entered the international record books on Saturday, setting a new benchmark for the most runs in a 3-match bilateral T20 series between ICC Full Member nations. Farhan compiled a staggering aggregate of 238 runs across three matches against Sri Lanka, eclipsing the previous world record established earlier this year.
Despite Pakistan conceding the final T20I to Sri Lanka by eight wickets at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium, the hosts sealed the three-match bilateral series 2-1, underpinned largely by Farhan’s prolific run of form.
Eclipsing Abhishek Sharma’s Global Milestone
Farhan’s record-breaking campaign culminated in the third T20I, where he stroked a composed 76 off 47 deliveries—his third consecutive half-century of the series. According to official International Cricket Council (ICC) statistics, this propelled his series tally to 238 runs, surpassing the previous record of 229 runs set by Indian prodigy Abhishek Sharma during India’s bilateral series against Afghanistan earlier this year.
Farhan now leads an elite table of global power-hitters who have dominated bilateral contests:
| Player | Nation | Series Runs | Opponent |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sahibzada Farhan | Pakistan | 238 | Sri Lanka (2024) |
| Abhishek Sharma | India | 229 | Afghanistan (2024) |
| Colin Munro | New Zealand | 223 | West Indies (2018) |
| David Warner | Australia | 217 | Sri Lanka (2019) |
| Hazratullah Zazai | Afghanistan | 204 | Ireland (2019) |
Third T20I: Mendis Masterclass Denies Pakistan a Clean Sweep
While Farhan captured the spotlight with the individual record, Sri Lanka mounted a disciplined counterattack to avoid a series whitewash.
Batting first, Pakistan posted 168 runs on the board, driven almost single-handedly by Farhan’s measured 76. Sri Lanka’s bowling attack applied the brakes effectively in the death overs, denying the home side a projected 180-plus total.
In reply, Sri Lankan captain Kusal Mendis orchestrated a clinical chase. Mendis smashed an unbeaten 87 off just 47 deliveries, accompanied by a resilient knock from Kamindu Mendis. The visitors chased down the 169-run target with eight wickets and 17 deliveries to spare. Kusal Mendis was adjudged the Player of the Match for his match-winning performance.
Series Overview: Pakistan’s Dominance in Rawalpindi
Despite the third-match hiccup, Pakistan claimed the bilateral trophy courtesy of commanding displays in the earlier fixtures:
- 1st T20I (October 9): Pakistan secured a tight 4-wicket win.
- 2nd T20I (October 11): Pakistan dominated with an 82-run victory following a batting blitz.
- 3rd T20I (October 12): Sri Lanka won by 8 wickets (Pakistan wins series 2-1).
Captains’ Perspectives
Reflecting on his individual milestone and the team’s performance, Sahibzada Farhan emphasized consistency:
“We set out with the same target-setting blueprint that worked in the first two games. However, cricket is unpredictable, and Sri Lanka capitalized on the conditions today. My priority remains executing consistency at the top of the order and maximizing good form for the team’s broader objectives.”
Sri Lanka skipper Kusal Mendis commended his squad’s clinical response:
“Our bowling and fielding disciplines improved drastically today compared to the previous two encounters. Kamindu and I were able to pace the chase according to plan, and finishing the tour with a complete performance across all three departments gives the squad immense confidence.”
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Who holds the record for the most runs in a 3-match bilateral T20 series?
Pakistan captain Sahibzada Farhan holds the world record for the most runs in a 3-match bilateral T20 series between ICC Full Member nations, scoring 238 runs against Sri Lanka.
Whose record did Sahibzada Farhan break?
Farhan broke the record previously held by Indian opener Abhishek Sharma, who scored 229 runs against Afghanistan in early 2024.
What was the final result of the Pakistan vs Sri Lanka T20 series?
Pakistan won the three-match bilateral T20I series 2-1, winning the first two matches before Sri Lanka claimed the final match in Rawalpindi by eight wickets.
Conclusion
Sahibzada Farhan’s technical consistency throughout this series has elevated his profile in international T20 cricket, proving that modern power-hitting can coexist with classical anchoring. Establishing the benchmark for the most runs in a 3-match bilateral T20 series underscores his pivotal role as Pakistan consolidates its combinations ahead of upcoming global ICC tournaments.
Editorial Disclaimer
Disclaimer: This sports report is compiled for informational and journalistic purposes based on verified post-match scorecards and official press conferences. Statistical data reflects records recognized by the International Cricket Council (ICC) for matches between ICC Full Member nations.
Did Sahibzada Farhan’s aggressive yet composed approach solidify his place at the top of Pakistan’s T20 order? Join the debate in the comments section below, and subscribe to our newsletter for real-time cricket analytics, series previews, and breaking sports journalism.
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