Pakistan secured a five-wicket victory over Sri Lanka in their Asia Cup T20 Super Four encounter held in Abu Dhabi, moving up to second place on the points table.
Chasing a target of 134, Pakistan reached 138 for 5 in 17.5 overs. Mohammad Nawaz anchored the chase with an unbeaten 38, while Hussain Talat contributed a steady 32 not out.
For Sri Lanka, Maheesh Theekshana and Wanindu Hasaranga were the most effective bowlers, claiming two wickets apiece.
Earlier, Pakistan captain Shaheen Shah Afridi won the toss and opted to field first. Sri Lanka, making two changes to their lineup, brought in Chamika Karunaratne and Theekshana in place of Kamindu Mendis and Dunith Wellalage.
Sri Lanka’s innings struggled from the start. Kusal Mendis fell for a duck in the very first over to Afridi, who then dismissed Pathum Nissanka for 8. Kusal Perera managed 15 before being removed, while skipper Charith Asalanka made 20 but failed to capitalize. Dhananjaya de Silva, who had starred in the previous match against Bangladesh, was dismissed for a duck.
Kamindu Mendis stood firm with a fighting half-century (50), but received little support apart from Hasaranga’s 15. Sri Lanka eventually finished on 133 for 8 in their 20 overs.
Pakistan’s clinical chase ensured a comfortable win, keeping their hopes alive in the tournament.
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