Pakistan secured a thrilling win over Sri Lanka in the Super Four stage of the Asia Cup, keeping their campaign alive after a modest target of 134. Pakistan skipper Salman Agha praised Shaheen Shah Afridi for his stellar bowling and all-rounder Mohammed Nawaz for his batting potential.

Afridi and Nawaz shine as Pakistan chase 134

Sri Lanka, after winning the group stage undefeated, were restricted to 133/8 in 20 overs, with Kamindu Mendis top-scoring with 50 runs off 44 balls, including three fours and two sixes. Pakistan’s bowling attack was led by Shaheen Shah Afridi (3/28), Hussain Talat (2/18), and Haris Rauf (2/37), reducing Sri Lanka to 80/6 at one stage.

In the run chase, Pakistan lost momentum after a promising start by Sahibzada Farhan (24 in 17 balls) and Fakhar Zaman (17 in 19 balls), slumping to 80/5. However, a crucial 58-run unbeaten sixth-wicket partnership between Hussain Talat (32)* and Mohammed Nawaz (38)* guided Pakistan to victory with two overs to spare.

Skipper praises key performers

Salman Agha termed Afridi an “asset” and praised the team’s fielding efforts, saying:

“Cannot say it is a perfect game. We lost four wickets in 3 overs. Apart from that, it was a perfect game. Shaheen has been bowling really well. He is a match-winner.”

He also highlighted the contributions of all-rounders Talat and Nawaz, noting their potential to play pivotal roles in future matches.

Sri Lanka skipper reflects on defeat

Sri Lankan skipper Charith Asalanka attributed the loss to early wickets:

“If you lose 5 wickets before the 10th over, it will be hard. The surface was good. Pakistan bowled and fielded really well. Even though we only scored 133, the fight and spirit we showed were something to be proud of.”

Asalanka also praised Wanindu Hasaranga, who contributed with both bat and ball.

Match summary

  • Toss: Pakistan elected to field.
  • Sri Lanka innings: 133/8 in 20 overs (Mendis 50, Afridi 3/28, Talat 2/18).
  • Pakistan innings: 134/5 in 18 overs (Nawaz 38*, Talat 32*, Hasaranga 2/27).
  • Result: Pakistan won by 5 wickets with two overs remaining.
  • Points: Pakistan second in Super Four with 1 win, 1 loss; Sri Lanka at bottom with two losses.