Image Source: Social Media
In a crucial Super Four match of the Asia Cup 2025 at Abu Dhabi, Pakistan defeated Sri Lanka by five wickets, knocking Sri Lanka out of the tournament and boosting their own chances of qualification. Pakistan captain Salman Ali Agha chose to field first, putting Sri Lanka under pressure early on.
Sri Lanka’s Struggles with the Bat
Sri Lanka faced a disastrous start as Shaheen Shah Afridi claimed early wickets, including Kusal Mendis on the second ball and Pathum Nissanka soon after. Sri Lanka captain Charith Asalanka managed only 20 runs before falling to Haris Rauf, and Dasun Shanaka was dismissed for a duck right after.
Kamindu Mendis fought hard, scoring a valuable 50 off 44 balls with a steady partnership of 43 runs alongside Chamika Karunaratne, who scored an unbeaten 17. However, Sri Lanka could only muster a below-par total of 133/8 in their 20 overs. Shaheen Afridi was Pakistan’s standout bowler with figures of 3/28, supported by Haris Rauf and Hussain Talat, who each took two wickets.
Pakistan’s Wobbly Chase but Smooth Finish
Pakistan got off to a good start with openers Sahibzada Farhan and Fakhar Zaman putting up a solid platform, but both fell quickly in the sixth over, followed by Saim Ayub and team captain Salman Ali Agha’s wickets, pushing Pakistan under pressure.
In the middle order, Hussain Talat and Mohammad Nawaz showed great composure, scoring unbeaten 32 and 38 runs respectively, guiding Pakistan to victory with 12 balls to spare. Despite a shaky phase, Pakistan’s experience and determination ensured they crossed the finish line successfully.
In today’s episode of "?? ??? ???, ?? ????? ??? ????…" ?
— Sony Sports Network (@SonySportsNetwk) September 23, 2025
Watch the #DPWorldAsiaCup2025 from Sept 9-28, 7 PM onwards, LIVE on the Sony Sports Network TV channels & Sony LIV.#SonySportsNetwork #PAKvSL pic.twitter.com/evBAkIIEyx
Key Performances
- Sri Lanka: 133/8 in 20 overs
- Kamindu Mendis: 50 (44)
- Chamika Karunaratne:17* (21)
- Shaheen Afridi: 3/28
- Haris Rauf: 2 wickets
- Pakistan: 137/5 in 18 overs
- Hussain Talat: 32* (30)
- Mohammad Nawaz: 38* (24)
- Sahibzada Farhan: 34 (early wicket)
- Fakhar Zaman: 25 (early wicket)
Pakistan take the win vs Sri Lanka ?
— Sony Sports Network (@SonySportsNetwk) September 23, 2025
Watch the #DPWorldAsiaCup2025 from Sept 9-28, 7 PM onwards, LIVE on the Sony Sports Network TV channels & Sony LIV.#SonySportsNetwork #DPWorldAsiaCup2025 pic.twitter.com/VUxZtiVSt0
Result and Outlook
Pakistan’s five-wicket victory keeps their final qualification hopes alive as they fight to reach the Asia Cup 2025 final. Sri Lanka, facing two consecutive defeats in the Super 4, are now out of the tournament and will look to end on a high against India in their final game.
Also Read: PAK vs SL Asia Cup 2025: Pitch Report, Head-to-Head, Playing 11, AI Prediction
Give Your Feedback