Abu Dhabi, (UNI) Hussain Talat’s all-round brilliance and Mohammad Nawaz’s explosive finishing powered Pakistan to a five-wicket win over Sri Lanka in the 15th Match of the Asia Cup 2025 Super Fours at Sheikh Zayed Stadium here today.
Sri Lanka will be knocked out if India beat Bangladesh tomorrow. That would also confirm India a spot in the final.
Talat starred with both bat and ball, scoring an unbeaten 32 off 30 balls while taking two crucial wickets for 18 runs. He laid the platform for Pakistan’s chase of 134, combining aggressive strokeplay with smart running between the wickets.
Talat’s crisp boundaries and well-timed sixes off Wanindu Hasaranga and Maheesh Theekshana kept the required run rate comfortably under control and set the stage for Nawaz’s late fireworks.
Mohammad Nawaz complemented Talat brilliantly, striking a series of breathtaking shots including a 136.7kph straight drive over point and a towering six over long-on to seal the victory. Their partnership crossed 50 runs, ensuring Pakistan finished the chase with authority.
After winning the toss, Pakistan elected to bowl, and Shaheen Afridi, Haris Rauf, Wanindu Hasaranga, and Maheesh Theekshana applied relentless pressure on the Sri Lankan batsmen.
Early breakthroughs set the tone, with Kusal Mendis dismissed for a golden duck by Afridi, caught by Talat, and Pathum Nissanka falling for 8 to Mohammad Haris.
Kamindu Mendis fought a lone battle, scoring 50 off 44 balls, supported by Chamika Karunaratne’s unbeaten 17, but Sri Lanka were restricted to 133 for 8 in 20 overs.
Other wickets included Sahibzada Farhan (24), Fakhar Zaman (17), Saim Ayub (2), and Salman Agha (5), all dismissed by disciplined Pakistan bowling.
In the final overs, Afridi claimed his third wicket by trapping Kamindu Mendis lbw in the 18.4th over, and Haris Rauf dismissed Dushmantha Chameera with a spectacular mid-off catch by Salman Agha. Abrar Ahmed also removed Wanindu Hasaranga (15) with a brilliant googly, further tightening Pakistan’s grip on the match.
Afridi finished with figures of 4-0-28-3, Rauf took 2 for 37, and Talat’s all-round contribution ensured Pakistan’s unbeaten run in the tournament continued, highlighting a comprehensive team performance.
