Pakistan Triumphs Over Sri Lanka in Asia Cup Super Four Clash
Match Highlights and Key Performers
Abu Dhabi [UAE], September 24: After securing a victory against Sri Lanka in the Super Four stage of the Asia Cup, Pakistan's captain Salman Agha praised Shaheen Shah Afridi's exceptional bowling, referring to him as an invaluable asset. He also commended all-rounder Mohammed Nawaz for his significant potential.
In a straightforward chase of 134 runs, a composed partnership of 58 runs for the sixth wicket between Hussain Talat and Nawaz enabled Pakistan to reach their target with two overs remaining, keeping their tournament hopes alive. Earlier, Shaheen shone brightly for Pakistan, claiming three wickets in just four overs. With this win, Pakistan stands second in the Super Four stage, having one win and one loss, totaling two points. Conversely, Sri Lanka, which finished the group stage undefeated, finds itself at the bottom with two losses.
Post-match, Agha remarked that while the game wasn't flawless due to losing four wickets in the first three overs, the overall performance was commendable. He stated, “I can’t say it was a perfect game. We lost four wickets in three overs. Other than that, it was a solid performance. Our fielding coach, Shane McDermott, has been instrumental, and we affectionately call him Rockstar. The players have been putting in extra effort on the field. Shaheen's bowling has been outstanding; he is a true match-winner.”
Agha further emphasized the importance of all-rounders in modern cricket, expressing his happiness for Talat, whom he has known for years, and highlighting Nawaz's batting potential. He expressed hope that both players would continue to excel, adding that Abrar has also been performing well and is a go-to option in challenging situations.
On the other side, Sri Lankan captain Charith Asalanka acknowledged that losing five wickets before the 10th over was detrimental, despite the pitch being favorable. He noted, “Losing five wickets early makes it tough. The pitch was good, and Pakistan bowled and fielded exceptionally well in the initial overs. At 57/4 and later 80/5, we had a chance, and that was a positive aspect for us. Although we only managed 133 runs, the fight and spirit displayed were commendable.”
Asalanka also praised all-rounder Wanindu Hasaranga for his contributions, which included two wickets and a valuable 15 runs off 13 balls, stating, “Hasaranga has always been a standout in white-ball cricket, consistently delivering for the country.”
In the match, Pakistan won the toss and opted to field first. Sri Lanka struggled, collapsing to 80/6, with Kamindu Mendis scoring 50 runs off 44 balls, helping the team reach 133/8 in their 20 overs.
For Pakistan, Shaheen Shah Afridi (3/28), Hussain Talat (2/18), and Haris Rauf (2/37) were particularly effective with the ball.
During the chase, Sahibzada Farhan (24 runs off 17 balls, including one four and two sixes) and Fakhar Zaman (17 runs off 19 balls, with two fours) established a 45-run opening partnership. However, they faltered to 80/5 due to the impressive bowling of spinners Wanindu Hasaranga (2/27) and Maheesh Theekshana (2/24). Nevertheless, all-rounders Hussain Talat (32* off 30 balls, with four boundaries) and Mohammed Nawaz (38* off 24 balls, with three fours and two sixes) guided Pakistan to victory with a crucial 58-run partnership, finishing the match with two overs to spare.