Cricket

In a thrilling opening Twenty20 international of a three-match series in Sylhet on Monday, Sri Lanka emerged victorious over Bangladesh by a narrow margin of three runs. Chasing a challenging target of 207 runs, Bangladesh's lower middle-order batsman Jaker Ali played a valiant innings, scoring a maiden fifty and bringing his team close to victory. However, Sri Lanka's captain Dasun Shanaka displayed nerves of steel in the final over, claiming two crucial wickets to secure the win.Bangladesh's pursuit of the target began with a solid start, but former Sri Lankan captain Angelo Mathews made an early impact by dismissing two key batsmen. Mahmudullah Riyad then played a crucial role, striking a quickfire 54 off 31 balls to revive the home side's hopes. However, Shanaka's heroics in the final over proved decisive.Earlier, Sri Lanka had set a formidable total of 206-3 after being sent in to bat. Sadeera Samarawickrama and Kusal Mendis played key roles, scoring fifties and sharing a 96-run partnership for the third wicket. Stand-in skipper Charith Asalanka also contributed with an unbeaten 44 from 21 balls.The series marks the start of Sri Lanka's month-long tour of Bangladesh, which will also include three one-day internationals and two Tests.

In a remarkable achievement, former Pakistan captain Babar Azam has etched his name in the history books by becoming the fastest batter to reach the milestone of 10,000 runs in the T20 format. This extraordinary feat was accomplished in a mere 271 innings, surpassing the previous record held by West Indies legend Chris Gayle, who took 285 innings to reach the same milestone. India's batting maestro Virat Kohli stands third on the list, having taken 299 innings to achieve this remarkable feat.Babar's journey to this historic milestone was marked by consistency and brilliance. Playing for Peshawar Zalmi in the ongoing Pakistan Super League (PSL), he needed just six runs to set the world record. With nerves of steel and unwavering focus, he successfully achieved this milestone during a match against Karachi Kings, while also leading his team as captain.It is noteworthy that Babar narrowly missed reaching the milestone in the previous game against Quetta Gladiators, where he was dismissed for 68 runs. However, his determination and unwavering focus propelled him to become the 13th player overall to reach the coveted 10,000-run mark in the T20 format.Babar's achievement is even more remarkable considering that he is still only 28 years old, with many more years of cricket ahead of him. His ability to score runs at a rapid pace, coupled with his consistency and adaptability, makes him one of the most exciting and dangerous batters in the world today.Chris Gayle, the previous record holder, remains the leading run-scorer in T20 cricket, with an impressive tally of 14,562 runs. However, Babar's rapid ascent up the ranks suggests that he could potentially challenge Gayle's record in the years to come.Babar's achievement is a testament to his hard work, dedication, and unwavering commitment to the sport. It is a moment of pride for Pakistan cricket and a reminder of the immense talent that exists within the country.