Abu Dhabi, Sep 23 (UNI) Sri Lanka managed a modest total of 133 for 8 in 20 overs against Pakistan in the Super Fours, 15th Match of the Asia Cup 2025 at Sheikh Zayed Stadium here today.
After winning the toss, Pakistan opted to bowl, and their pace attack, led by Shaheen Afridi and Haris Rauf, kept the Sri Lankan batsmen under pressure throughout the innings.
Early breakthroughs set the tone for Pakistan, with Kusal Mendis departing for a golden duck in the second ball of the match, caught by Hussain Talat off Afridi. Pathum Nissanka added 8 runs before falling to Mohammad Haris, also caught behind.
Sri Lanka’s innings saw brief resistance from Kusal Perera (15) and Charith Asalanka (20), but wickets kept tumbling, including captain Dasun Shanaka (0) and Wanindu Hasaranga (15).
Kamindu Mendis fought a lone battle with a half-century (50 off 44 balls), supported by Chamika Karunaratne (17 not out), but could not prevent Sri Lanka from being restricted to a sub-140 score.
In the final overs, Pakistan’s bowlers maintained control, with Shaheen Afridi claiming his third wicket by trapping Kamindu lbw for 50 in the 18.4th over.
Haris Rauf continued the pressure in the last over, taking the key wicket of Dushmantha Chameera (1) with a spectacular catch by Salman Agha at mid-off.
Chamika added some late fireworks, hitting a four and a six off Rauf and surviving a review for a faint edge that brushed his pad. Despite his efforts, Sri Lanka could not significantly boost their total, finishing on 133 for 8.
Afridi finished with figures of 4-0-28-3, while Rauf picked up 2 wickets for 37. Talat also claimed two wickets for 18, and Abrar Ahmed bowled Hasaranga (15) with a googly in the 12th over.
Sri Lanka’s innings was marked by aggressive strokes and moments of brilliance, but consistent Pakistan bowling ensured they remained under control.
Pakistan now begin their chase, aiming to win this crucial encounter to consolidate their position in the tournament.
Umpires for the match are Izatullah Safi and Masudur Rahman, with Gazi Sohel as third umpire and Richie Richardson as match referee.
