DUBAI; In a must-win Asia Cup 2025 Super Four clash, Pakistan defeated Sri Lanka by five wickets with two overs to spare, keeping their chances alive for a place in the final.
Chasing 134, Pakistan stumbled at 80 for five, with Wanindu Hasaranga denting the innings by dismissing skipper Salman Agha and another batter in quick succession. Openers Sahibzada Farhan and Fakhar Zaman had provided a steady start but failed to convert it into big scores.
The turning point came through a gritty 58-run stand between Hussain Talat and Mohammad Nawaz. Talat scored 32 runs, while Nawaz smashed an unbeaten 38, including three sixes in a single over off Dushmantha Chameera, sealing victory in style.
Earlier, Sri Lanka managed 133 runs, with Kamindu Mendis scoring a fighting fifty. Pakistan pacers dominated, with Shaheen Shah Afridi taking three wickets, while Haris Rauf and Talat claimed two each.
Pakistan will next face Bangladesh on September 25. A win could secure them a spot in the final, keeping their Asia Cup campaign alive after consecutive defeats to India.
