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Lahore: Pakistan won the first match by eight wickets, also played in Karachi, on Tuesday. The third game will be played in Lahore on Saturday.
After Wednesday's defeat Malik was asked whether Akhtar had played his last match. The Pakistan captain replied: "If you look at his performances and record and matches he has won, there is no question over his effectiveness," Malik said.
Muttiah Muralitharan needs five more wickets to become the highest wicket-taker in one-day cricket history as Sri Lanka take on Pakistan in the third and deciding one-day match here Saturday.
The hosts, though, have more to gain from a series-win: it will represent a welcome conclusion to the first international series in Pakistan during what's been a tumultous few months, help generate revenue for it's cash-strapped board and bring back more fans to the grounds after lower-than-expected turnouts for the first two games.
Sri Lankan captain Mahela Jayawardene said however winning the match - and with it the series - was the priority. "Definitely it would be great to see Murali achieve that record. Winning the match and the series would be the top priority, and on the way if Murali achieves that record we would definitely celebrate," said Jayawardene.
Mahela Jayawardene has had a torrid run in ODIs, managing just 100 runs in his last 11 innings at 9.09. However, he looked confident during his brief innings of 24 in the second ODI and will hope to reverse his fortunes with a significant contribution in the decider.
Pakistan have a good overall record at the Gaddafi stadium, winning 29 and losing 17 ODIs. Their performance since 2004, though, has been mixed with six wins - two against Bangladesh - and seven losses.
Pitch Report: One could expect a typical batting track, though the overcast weather forecast for tomorrow afternoon could tempt the captains to take advantage of favourable bowling conditions early on.
