Sarfraz, Yasir star as Pakistan thump Sri Lanka in violence marred third ODI

Colombo, July 20 : Pakistan displayed a clinical performance to defeat Sri Lanka by 135 runs in the third ODI of the five-match series in Colombo, thanks to solid top-order batting and Yasir Shah’s inspiring bowling spell.However, an outbreak of violence in the stands marred the lively cricketing display as play was subsequently suspended for half-an-hour before situation was brought under control by authorities.The tourists posted a daunting 317-run target for Sri Lanka after opting to bat first. Ahmed Shehzad (44) and Azhar Ali (49) gave a promising start for the team as the duo shared a strong 93-run partnership for the opening wicket.Mohammad Hafeez, who was handed a one-year ban from bowling by the ICC, smacked a quick-fire 54, while Sarfraz Ahmed was the top scorer with 77.Shoaib Malik (42) and Mohammad Rizwan (35) then accelerated the scoreline as they remained unbeaten to help the team post a challenging total.In reply, Sri Lanka stuttered from the start of their innings as they lost wickets at regular wickets and were eventually bundled out for 181 in the 41.1 over.Lahiru Thirimanne was the top scorer for his side, with 56.Meanwhile, Yasir Shah continued his stellar form by claiming four wickets, and received substantial support from Anwar Ali and Imad Wasim, who took two wickets each.With the win, Pakistan lead the five-match series 2-1 and will face Sri Lanka in the fourth ODI on Wednesday.