Cricket fans around the world are in for a treat as the stage is set for a thrilling showdown in the final of the Asia Cup 2023. Sri Lanka’s remarkable journey through the tournament has earned them a spot in the championship match, where they will go head-to-head with the formidable Indian cricket team.
Sri Lanka on Thursday (September 14) beat Pakistan and knocked out of Asia Cup 2023 with a two-wicket defeat in the Super-4 clash at the R Premadasa Stadium in Colombo.
In a rain-affected affair, the Men in Green posted 252/7 in their allotted 42 overs on the back of Mohammad Rizwan’s stunning 86* from 73 balls and valiant knocks from Abdullah Shafique (52) and Iftikhar Ahmed (47).
Matheesha Pathirana picked up three wickets for Sri Lanka but leaked 65 runs in his eight overs while Pramod Madushan (2-58), Dunith Wellalage (1-40), and Maheesh Theekshana (1-42) took four scalps among them.
In reply, Kusal Mendis led a determined batting effort for Lankan with a brilliant knock of 91 in 87 balls. Mendis was well supported by Charith Asalanka (49 not out) and Sadeera Samarawickrama (48) as the hosts successfully overhauled the target on the final delivery.
This result means that Dasun Shanaka’s team will now face Rohit Sharma’s India in the final to be played on Sunday (September 17) at the same venue in Colombo.
