Srilanka won the match by four wickets against Hong Kong.
Full Scorecard – Srilanka vs Hong Kong
Sri Lanka 153 for 6 (Pathum Nissanka 68, Wanindu Hasaranga, Yasim Murtaza 2-37) beat Hong Kong 149/4 (Nizakat Khan 52, Anshy Rath 48, Dushmantha Chameera 2-29) by 4 wickets.
SriLanka Clinches Thrilling Victory Over Hong Kong
In an exciting Asia Cup 2025 encounter, Sri Lanka secured a hard-fought four-wicket victory over a resilient Hong Kong side. This nail-biting match, the eighth of the tournament, unfolded on Monday, September 15, at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium. Ultimately, after winning the toss, Sri Lanka’s captain elected to field first. Subsequently, his team had to chase down a competitive target of 150, which they achieved in a tense final over.
Hong Kong’s Batters Post a Competitive Total
Initially, Hong Kong’s innings got off to a slow start. However, a crucial partnership between Anshuman Rath and Nizakat Khan steadied the ship. Together, they skillfully built a foundation for a strong finish. Specifically, Nizakat Khan played a superb innings, remaining unbeaten on 52 from just 38 balls. Furthermore, his knock included four boundaries and two powerful sixes, which propelled his team to a respectable total of 149 for 4.
Pathum Nissanka Anchors the Srilankan Chase
In response, Sri Lanka’s chase was masterfully anchored by opener Pathum Nissanka. From the outset, he played with confidence and control. Consequently, he was awarded the Player of the Match for his magnificent 68 runs off only 44 balls. His innings, for instance, was decorated with six fours and two sixes. Therefore, he single-handedly ensured Sri Lanka stayed ahead of the required run rate for most of the chase.
Hong Kong’s Bowlers Fight Back in the Death Overs
Despite Nissanka’s brilliance, Hong Kong’s bowlers never gave up the fight. In fact, they applied immense pressure, especially in the crucial death overs. As a result of their disciplined bowling, Sri Lanka experienced a mini-collapse, losing several quick wickets. Suddenly, this thrilling turn of events brought the match right down to the wire, thus creating a tense and exciting finish for the fans.
Hasaranga’s Cameo Seals the Win for Srilanka
With the game in the balance, Wanindu Hasaranga stepped up to be the hero for Sri Lanka. Needing a quick finish, he played a vital, quickfire cameo of 20 runs from just nine deliveries. His explosive hitting, therefore, broke the tension and decisively tilted the match back in his team’s favor. Ultimately, his contribution proved to be the difference, as Sri Lanka secured their second win of the tournament.
Tournament Standings: Contrasting Fortunes
In conclusion, this victory solidifies Sri Lanka’s strong position in the tournament, seeing as they now have four points from two matches. For Hong Kong, conversely, this heartbreaking loss marked their third consecutive defeat. Unfortunately for them, this result also officially ends their Asia Cup 2025 campaign, while Sri Lanka marches on with championship aspirations.