With this victory, Pakistan maintains its chances of reaching the T20 Asia Cup 2025 final. They did so in style, with a comfortable five-wicket win against Sri Lanka in Abu Dhabi. The win boosts Pakistan’s standings in the Super Fours points table and places Sri Lanka’s chances of advancing in jeopardy.
The game started on a good note for Pakistan with their captain opting to bowl first, a decision they went onto benefit from almost instantly. Look no further than Shaheen Shah Afridi, who quickly put his mark on this match by dismissing Kusal Mendis on the second ball of the match. Afridi took the wind completely out of India’s sails with a brilliant 3-28 in his four overs. This confirmed his position as Pakistan’s most important player.
Sri Lanka had a difficult time getting on the front foot from the start. Kusal Perera and captain Charith Asalanka created a fleeting partnership that provided hope. Their dismissals were crucial as all of a sudden Sri Lanka were 58-4. Afridi’s celebration of the dismissal of Pathum Nissanka served to further demoralise the Sri Lankan batting order.
Amidst all the chaos, one name stood out for Pakistan – Hussain Talat. He hit 32 off 20 balls, ensuring stability at a precarious time in the innings. Talat’s performance was instrumental in steering Pakistan home to their target of 134 runs. He was given excellent protection, headlined by Muhammad Nawaz, whose all-round contribution proved pivotal later in the contest.
Pakistan started their chase on a near match-winning footing. An opening stand of 45 between Sahibzada Farhan and Fakhar Zaman built a great platform for the innings. Farhan was eventually dismissed for a quickfire 24 off 15 balls by Maheesh Theekshana’s off-break bowling. Zaman endured an early scare as he was peppered by a Chameera bouncer that hit him on the grille. Even with this damage, he courageously pressed on with his innings. Sadly, as luck would have it, he joined Farhan soon after, dismissed to an amazing grab by Wanindu Hasaranga.
As Pakistan approached the end of their innings, Muhammad Nawaz became a key player. He plundered a rapid 38 off only 24 deliveries. Then, with two mammoth sixes off Chameera, he ensured victory and helped Pakistan chase down the target with two overs to spare.
