Asia Cup 2025 Pakistan beat Sri Lanka stay alive in Super 4 race

By Abhishek Kumar

Pakistan kept their campaign alive in the Asia Cup 2025 after a thrilling 5-wicket win over Sri Lanka in Abu Dhabi on Tuesday.

Batting first Sri Lanka managed just 133 for 8 in 20 overs. Kamindu Mendis fought hard with a fifty but lacked support from the other end. Pakistan bowlers were on point — Shaheen Afridi picked 3 for 28 while Hussain Talat chipped in with two wickets to restrict the Lankans.

The chase was not easy for Pakistan. They lost wickets in clusters slipping to 80 for 5 after Hasaranga’s sharp spell. But the game turned when Mohammad Nawaz (38 off 24)* and Hussain Talat (32)* joined hands. The pair added a calm yet powerful 58-run stand and took Pakistan home in 18 overs. Nawaz finished the job in style smashing a six to seal the win.

Talat’s all-round show earned him the Player of the Match award. Captain Salman Agha admitted the collapse was a concern but praised the lower-order fightback.

With this victory Pakistan move to two points in the Super 4 keeping the India vs Pakistan final scenario alive. Sri Lanka on the other hand now stare at elimination after two straight defeats. Their next clash against India will decide their fate while Pakistan’s meeting with Bangladesh is set to be a virtual semifinal.