Web Desk: Pakistan advanced to the final of the Rising Star Asia Cup after sealing a commanding victory over Sri Lanka in the tournament’s second semifinal on Thursday.
Pakistan Sets 154-Run Target
Sri Lanka won the toss and chose to field, allowing Pakistan to set the innings in motion. Pakistan posted a competitive 154-run target. Saad Masood and Ahmed Daniyal contributed 22 runs each, while Ghazi Ghori anchored the innings with a solid 39.
Sri Lankan Bowlers Keep Pressure On
Sri Lanka’s Parmoud Madushan led the bowling attack with four wickets, while Treveen Mathews added three, slowing Pakistan’s scoring pace in the middle overs. Their spell gave Sri Lanka momentum heading into the chase.
Sri Lanka Starts Strong but Falters
Sri Lanka opened confidently but soon suffered a string of quick dismissals that stalled their run chase. Lasith Croospulle scored 27 and Vishen Halambage added 29, while Milan Rathnayake remained the top scorer with 40 runs but the middle order could not maintain momentum as wickets continued to fall.
Pakistan Bowlers Seal the Win
Pakistan’s bowlers delivered an exceptional performance to defend the total. Saad Masood and Sufiyan Muqeeb took three wickets each, breaking Sri Lanka’s rhythm and shutting down their chase.
With the win, Pakistan secured a spot in the Rising Star Asia Cup final, setting the stage for a high-stakes title clash.
