PAK square off against SL in match No. 15 of the 2025 Asia Cup at the Sheikh Zayed Stadium in Abu Dhabi on Tuesday, September 23.
PAK vs SL Match Details
Crucial Clash Looms in Abu Dhabi
Indeed, pressure mounts intensely now. Pakistan meets Sri Lanka Tuesday. Both teams suffered opening Super Four defeats. Consequently, this match feels like sudden death. A loss likely ends their final hopes. Therefore, expect fierce, high-octane cricket from ball one.
PAK vs `SL Match preview
Salman Ali Agha-led Pakistan will be down on confidence after losing to arch-rivals India for the second time in the Asia Cup. This was their opening encounter in the Super Fours. The Men in Green would like to get their campaign back on track with a win on Tuesday.
Sri Lanka have their backs against the wall after losing their opening Super-Four clash against Bangladesh. They lost by four wickets, failing to defend a 169-run target. Before the match against Bangladesh, Sri Lanka won all three matches they played in the group stage. Another defeat and the Lankan Lions could be out of the tournament.
Recent Form Tells a Clear Story
Previously, Pakistan lost twice to India. First in groups, then Super Four. Their confidence took a serious hit. Meanwhile, Sri Lanka entered Super Four unbeaten. However, Bangladesh then beat them convincingly. So, Sri Lanka’s momentum vanished overnight. Now, both squads desperately need victory.
Head-to-Head Edge Goes to Pakistan
Historically, Pakistan holds the advantage. They won 13 of 23 past T20Is. Sri Lanka claimed just 10 victories. Furthermore, their last meeting was the 2022 Asia Cup final. Sri Lanka surprisingly won that thriller. Still, Pakistan’s overall record suggests slight dominance here.
| Matches Played | 23 |
| Won by Pakistan | 13 |
| Won by Sri Lanka | 10 |
| No Result | 0 |
| Tied | 0 |
| First-ever Fixture | September 17, 2007 |
| Most-recent Fixture | September 11, 2022 |
Key Batters Who Can Win It All
Certainly, Pathum Nissanka leads Sri Lanka’s charge. He tops the Asia Cup run charts. His 146 runs came at superb strike rate. For Pakistan, Sahibzada Farhan shines brightly. He smashed 132 runs with fearless aggression. Additionally, Saim Ayub offers vital support up top.
Bowlers Set to Steal the Spotlight
Undoubtedly, Nuwan Thushara is Sri Lanka’s weapon. He grabbed six wickets already. His swing and clever slower balls trouble all. Conversely, Pakistan trusts Saim Ayub’s spin. He also took six wickets at just 16.00 average. Shaheen Afridi’s powerplay bursts remain crucial too.
Pitch Report: Bowlers Might Rule
Moreover, Sheikh Zayed Stadium favors bowlers lately. Seven matches show average score near 165. Teams batting first won four of those seven. Therefore, captains might prefer setting a target. Keeping wickets intact through middle overs proves vital here.
Predicted Playing XIs
Pakistan (PAK):
Sahibzada Farhan, Saim Ayub, Fakhar Zaman, Salman Ali Agha (C), Hasan Nawaz, Khushdil Shah, Mohammad Haris (WK), Mohammad Nawaz, Shaheen Afridi, Haris Rauf, Abrar Ahmed.
Sri Lanka (SL):
Pathum Nissanka, Kusal Mendis (WK), Kamil Mishara, Kusal Perera, Charith Asalanka (C), Dasun Shanaka, Kamindu Mendis, Wanindu Hasaranga, Dunith Wellalage, Dushmantha Chameera, Nuwan Thushara.
Predicted XIs Offer Strong Balance
Pakistan likely fields Farhan, Ayub, Haris, Zaman, Agha, Nawaz, Ashraf, Nawaz, Afridi, Muqeem, Rauf. Sri Lanka counters with Nissanka, Mendis, Mishara, Perera, Asalanka, Shanaka, Mendis, Hasaranga, Wellalage, Chameera, Thushara. Both sides boast all-round depth and firepower.
Betting Odds Slightly Favor Pakistan
Interestingly, bookmakers see Pakistan as favorites. Dafabet lists them at 1.65 odds. Sri Lanka sits at 2.25. This reflects Pakistan’s stronger history. However, Sri Lanka’s current form and batting strength keep them firmly in the hunt. Expect a very close contest.
Match Prediction: Chasing Team Wins
Ultimately, the chasing team holds the advantage. If Pakistan bowls first, they likely win. Scenario: Sri Lanka posts 150-160. Pakistan chases it down comfortably. Alternatively, if Sri Lanka bowls first, they win. Pakistan makes 140-150. Sri Lanka knocks it off under pressure.
Final Thoughts Before First Ball
Finally, expect drama, tension, and brilliant skill. Both teams possess match-winners. Key moments will decide everything. Pathum’s bat or Thushara’s ball could be decisive. Similarly, Farhan’s fireworks or Ayub’s spin might turn tides. Do not miss this epic Super Four battle.