Pakistan defeats Sri Lanka by 5 Wickets in Asia Cup Super 4 Clash: Kamindu Mendis' Fifty in Vain as PAK Stays Alive for Final

This must-win PAK vs SL match saw Pakistan bounce back after early setbacks, ensuring they remain in contention for the Asia Cup final.

Sri Lanka, batting first after losing the toss, struggled against Pakistan's potent bowling attack. Shaheen Shah Afridi set the tone with a double strike in the powerplay, dismissing openers Kusal Mendis and Pathum Nissanka early. Hussain Talat shone with back-to-back wickets in the eighth over, removing captain Charith Asalanka and Dasun Shanaka, leaving SL reeling at 63/5. Kamindu Mendis provided resistance with a fighting half-century (50 runs), but his dismissal via LBW off Afridi in the 19th over restricted Sri Lanka to 133/8. Haris Rauf and Abrar Ahmed also chipped in with crucial wickets.

Pakistan's chase started strongly with Fakhar Zaman (17) and Sahibzada Farhan (24) providing a solid foundation, reaching 45/0 in five overs. However, Sri Lanka's spinners Maheesh Theekshana and Wanindu Hasaranga struck back, claiming three quick wickets to reduce PAK to 60/4. Despite the pressure, Nawaz and Talat's composed partnership guided Pakistan home, crossing the 100-run mark and finishing at 134/5 in 18 overs.

Top moments included Abrar Ahmed and Hasaranga teasing each other by mimicking celebrations after wickets, adding spice to the low-scoring thriller. A bouncer from Dushmantha Chameera also cracked Fakhar's helmet, while captain Salman Ali Agha lost his cool over a wrong review call.

This win marks Pakistan's first Super 4 victory in Asia Cup 2025, boosting their semifinal prospects. Sri Lanka, meanwhile, faces an uphill battle. Stay tuned for more Asia Cup live updates, PAK vs SL highlights, and cricket news.