PAK vs SL 3rd T20I Toss: Sri Lanka Opts to Bowl First

RAWALPINDI: Sri Lanka captain Kusal Mendis won the vital PAK vs SL 3rd T20I toss and chose to bowl first at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium. With clear skies overhead and optimal playing conditions under the floodlights, both teams are geared up for a full, uninterrupted 20-over battle on a surface traditionally known to be a paradise for top-order stroke-makers.

Having already conceded the bilateral series 2-0 following heavy defeats in the opening fixtures, a deflated Sri Lankan side faces an uphill task to prevent a total series whitewash. 

Explaining his tactical decision at the highly anticipated PAK vs SL 3rd T20I toss, the visiting skipper noted that chasing under the lights remains their preferred path. The team hopes its frontline bowling unit can exploit any early live grass cover or residual atmospheric moisture before the deck flattens out entirely for the second half of the game.

The challenge ahead for the Sri Lankan bowlers is formidable. Pakistan's batting lineup has been in sublime form throughout the tour, highlighted by explosive performances from Maaz Sadaqat, who narrowly missed a century with a blazing 96 in the 2nd T20I, and captain Sahibzada Farhan. 

The hosts will look to maintain their ruthless momentum and test their bench strength ahead of upcoming global assignments. Meanwhile, Sri Lanka seeks immediate redemption to finish their tour on a high note and salvage crucial ranking points.

Pakistan Playing XI for 3rd T20I

Fakhar Zaman, Sahibzada Farhan (c), Maaz Sadaqat, Hasan Nawaz, Abdul Samad, Khawaja Nafay (wk), Arafat Minhas, Mohammad Imran, Razaullah, Salman Mirza, Sufiyan Moqim

Sri Lanka Playing XI for 3rd T20I

Lahiru Udara, Sineth Jayawardena, Kusal Mendis (c)(wk), Kamindu Mendis, Sahan Arachige, Chamindu Wickramasinghe, Vijaykanth Viyaskanth, Eshan Malinga, Binura Fernando, Nuwan Thushara