Pakistan win the toss, choosing to bowl first after winning the toss. The decision paid off as the Pakistani bowlers delivered an impressive performance.
Pakistan’s Bowling Performance
Pakistan won the toss and decided to bowl first, putting immediate pressure on Sri Lanka’s batting lineup. The bowling unit looked sharp and determined to restrict the opposition to a modest total.
- Shaheen Afridi led the attack brilliantly, finishing with 3 wickets for 28 runs in 4 overs. His ability to strike early gave Pakistan the upper hand.
- Hussain Talat: in 3 overs, 18 runs, 2 wickets– provided useful support in the middle overs.
- Haris Rauf was slightly expensive, conceding 37 runs in his 4 overs, but he managed to take an important wicket.
Abrar Ahmed turned out to be the surprise star of the innings. With his clever spin bowling, he picked up 1 wicket for just 8 runs in 3 overs, completely strangling Sri Lanka’s scoring rate. His control and variations were a treat to watch.
Thanks to these efforts, Sri Lanka could only managed 133 runs in 20 overs, with their top scorer.
Sri lanka batting
Kamindu Mendis making 50 runs off 44 balls. Pakistan’s bowlers,
Pakistan’s bowlers,Especially Abrar and Shaheen, were the real heroes in restricting the opposition.
Pakistan’s Batting Chase
Chasing 138 runs, Pakistan the Asia Cup Super Four stage brought fans yet another exciting battle between Pakistan and Sri Lanka. After a solid bowling performance, Pakistan stepped up to chase down the target with a mix of aggression and composure.
Pakistan’s Batting Performance
- Sahibzada Farhan:
Farhan gave Pakistan a fiery start, scoring 24 runs off 15 balls. His intent at the top of the order set the tone for the chase, with boundaries that immediately put pressure on Sri Lanka’s bowlers. Although his innings was short, it played an important role in giving Pakistan early momentum.
- Fakhar Zaman:
Fakhar contributed 17 runs off 19 balls, playing cautiously but ensuring that the scoreboard kept ticking. His role was to build a platform for the middle order, and while not explosive, his knock was steady and supportive. - Hussain Talat:
Talat played a responsible innings, anchoring the chase with 32 runs from 30 balls. He rotated the strike effectively, played some beautiful shots, and built partnerships that helped Pakistan stay in control throughout the chase. - Mohammad Nawaz:
The real game-changer for Pakistan was Nawaz. Coming in at a crucial stage, he smashed 38 runs off just 24 balls, lifting the run rate when needed most. His clean hitting under pressure made the difference between a nervous chase and a confident finish. Nawaz’s ability to accelerate ensured Pakistan crossed the line comfortably.
Pakistan’s Chase in Numbers
Pakistan reached the target of 138 runs in only 18 overs, a strong statement of their batting depth and balance. The top and middle order combined aggression with responsibility, ensuring that the chase was handled professionally.
Key Takeaways
- Early Momentum – Farhan’s brisk start gave Pakistan confidence.
- Stability – Fakhar and Talat provided the necessary balance, avoiding reckless play.
- Finishing Power – Nawaz showcased his value as a dependable finisher with quick, impactful runs.
- Sahibzada Farhan: 24 runs off 15 balls
- Fakhar Zaman: 17 runs off 19 balls
- Hussain Talat: 32 runs off 30 balls
- Mohammad Nawaz: 38 runs off 24 balls (the highest scorer)
With a solid team effort, Pakistan reached 138 runs in 18 overs, comfortably sealing the victory
Sri Lanka’s Bowling Performance
- Maheesh Theekshana impressed with his accuracy and variations, taking 2 wickets for 24 runs in his 4 overs. His tight line and clever spin made it difficult for Pakistan’s batters to score freely.
- Wanindu Hasaranga, Sri Lanka’s star all-rounder, also made his presence felt. He claimed 2 wickets for 27 runs in 4 overs, using his googlies and sharp turn to keep Pakistan under pressure.
Together, Theekshana and Hasaranga combined for 4 wickets in 8 overs, conceding just 51 runs—a brilliant effort in a T20 match.
Final Thoughts
This was a match filled with excitement, brilliant bowling spells, and confident batting. Abrar Ahmed’s economical spin and Shaheen Afridi’s fiery opening overs stood out, while Mohammad Nawaz anchored the chase beautifully.
Pakistan’s balanced performance with both bat and ball led them to a thrilling win over Sri Lanka.