Pakistan National Cricket Team Secures Crucial Win Over Sri Lanka in Asia Cup 2025 Super 4
In a must-win Super 4 encounter at the Sheikh Zayed Stadium in Abu Dhabi, the Pakistan national cricket team held their nerves to clinch a vital victory against Sri Lanka in the Asia Cup 2025. Chasing a modest target of 134 runs, Pakistan faced several tense moments but managed to cross the finish line thanks to a composed partnership between Mohammad Nawaz and Hussain Talat.
Toss and Early Bowling Dominance
With the match crucial for both sides, Pakistan won the toss and opted to field first. The Men in Green made an instant impact, restricting Sri Lanka right from the outset. Shaheen Shah Afridi struck early, dismissing Kusal Mendis for a golden duck and Pathum Nissanka for just 8 runs within the first three overs. This early double blow set the tone for the innings.
Sri Lanka’s Struggle to Build Momentum
Sri Lanka continued to lose wickets at regular intervals, unable to maintain any significant momentum due to ill-judged shots and disciplined bowling from Pakistan. Kamindu Mendis took responsibility for the Islanders, scoring a measured 50 runs off 44 balls. However, the lower order failed to capitalize as pressure mounted.
Bowling Highlights
Shaheen Shah Afridi was the standout bowler for Pakistan, finishing with impressive figures of 4 overs, 28 runs, and 3 wickets. Haris Rauf and Hussain Talat supported well by claiming two wickets each, while Abrar Ahmed chipped in with one.
Pakistan’s Chase: A Rollercoaster Ride
Chasing 134, Pakistan got off to a good start with Sahibzada Farhan and Fakhar Zaman putting together a brisk opening partnership of 45 runs in 5.3 overs. However, Sri Lanka fought back through Maheesh Theekshana, who dismissed both Farhan (24) and Zaman (17). The pressure intensified as Wanindu Hasaranga picked up wickets of Saim Ayub (2) and Salman Agha (5), reducing Pakistan to 80 for 5.
Nerve-Wracking Finish
The match hung in balance when Dushmantha Chameera castled Mohammad Haris, breaking yet another promising partnership. Yet, Pakistan held firm at the death through resolute batting by Mohammad Nawaz and Hussain Talat. The duo capitalized on loose deliveries and steadily chipped away at the target.
The Winning Moment
Nawaz finished the match emphatically with a six, sealing the win with two overs to spare. His unbroken partnership of 58 runs off 41 balls with Hussain Talat proved crucial in navigating Pakistan to victory.
Pakistan’s win over Sri Lanka not only boosts their confidence but also puts significant pressure on Sri Lanka in the Asia Cup 2025 Super 4 stage.
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