Pakistan Keep Final Hopes Alive With Crucial Win Over Sri Lanka in Asia Cup'25 Super4 stage

 


In what has largely been a nightmare Asia Cup campaign, Pakistan finally found a ray of hope. In their second Super Four match, they defeated Sri Lanka by five wickets in Abu Dhabi, keeping their chances of reaching the final alive. The low-scoring encounter saw last edition’s runners-up, Sri Lanka, crumble under pressure as Pakistan outplayed them in batting, bowling, and fielding.

From the very first innings, Pakistan gained the upper hand thanks to Shaheen Shah Afridi’s fiery opening spell (3/28). Afridi struck twice in his first two overs, removing Kusal Mendis (0) and Pathum Nissanka (8) with consecutive second-ball dismissals, immediately pushing Sri Lanka onto the back foot. Kamindu Mendis (50) provided some resistance, steering his side to a respectable total, but Afridi returned to dismiss him before he could inflict further damage. Kusal Perera (15), Charith Asalanka (20), and Wanindu Hasaranga (15) all failed to convert starts. By the end of 20 overs, Sri Lanka were restricted to 133/8. Abrar Ahmed bowled impressively as well, conceding just 8 runs in his four overs and claiming a wicket, while Hussain Talat and Haris Rauf picked up two apiece.

Pakistan’s chase began with promise, racing to 45 runs in the very first partnership. Their scoring rate stayed healthy through the powerplay. However, Hasaranga and Theekshana sparked a comeback for Sri Lanka, tearing through Pakistan’s middle order. Within the space of 35 runs, Pakistan lost five wickets and were reduced to 80/5, raising fears of yet another collapse.

But Mohammad Nawaz (unbeaten 38) and Hussain Talat (unbeaten 32) stood firm. Their calm, measured partnership ensured Pakistan crossed the line without further hiccups. With 12 balls still left, they sealed the victory, also boosting their net run rate significantly.

For Pakistan, the win was vital after two one-sided defeats to arch-rivals India earlier in the tournament. Losing this contest would have virtually ended their campaign. Instead, Afridi and his men live to fight another day, keeping their final hopes alive. For Sri Lanka, however, the road to the final now looks almost shut, barring a dramatic turnaround.



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