The Super 4 match between Sri Lanka and Pakistan in the Asia Cup will be exciting. ABU DHABI Sri Lanka and Pakistan are both focused to get their first win in the Asia Cup Super 4s today when they play each other. Sri Lanka, the defending champions who did not lose a game in the group stage were shocked when they lost to Bangladesh by four wickets in their Super 4 opener.
The setback not only stopped their momentum but it also broke their impressive eight match winning streak in the T20 Asia Cup. Pakistan has also had a hard time off the field. Their performance on the field has been overshadowed by controversies and distractions.
The squad lost to their biggest rivals, India for the second time on Sunday which hurt their morale. Right now India and Bangladesh are both at two points. Suryakumar Yadavs team is in the lead since they have a greater net run rate. Sri Lanka and Pakistan occupy the third and fourth positions, making today match vital for both teams. Pakistan today faces a must win scenario.
The absence of former skipper Babar Azam and experienced batter Mohammad Rizwan has increased their batting struggles. Against India top order hitters Sahibzada Farhan, Fakhar Zaman and Saim Ayub had a promising start but the match failed in the latter half illustrating Pakistans struggle in maintaining pressure. Even their bowling led by leg spinner Abrar Ahmed, struggled against Indias formidable batting line up. Sri Lanka despite their great record, also have difficulties to solve.
Their middle order remains unsteady, though Dasun Shanaka counter attacking hit against Bangladesh brought some relief. Pathum Nissanka who won with straight fifties in the group stage, has hit a rocky patch but Kusal Mendis and Kamil Mishara are in strong form and might give much needed consistency.
In the bowling department, pacer Nuwan Thushara has impressed now standing as the fourth highest wicket taker in the tournament. Spin magician Wanindu Hasaranga along with Dushmantha Chameera, Charith Asalanka and Shanaka have also made vital contributions.
All rounder Dunith Wellalage has rejoined the squad after a brief pause following the loss of his father last week, a return that might improve both morale and team depth.
Squads:
Sri Lanka:
Charith Asalanka (c), Pathum Nissanka, Kusal Mendis (wk), Kusal Perera, Nuwanidu Fernando, Kamindu Mendis, Kamil Mishara, Dasun Shanaka, Wanindu Hasaranga, Dunith Wellalage, Chamika Karunaratne, Maheesh Theekshana, Dushmantha Chameera, Binura Fernando, Nuwan Thushara, Matheesha Pathirana
Pakistan:
Salman Ali Agha (c), Abrar Ahmed, Faheem Ashraf, Fakhar Zaman, Haris Rauf, Hasan Ali, Hasan Nawaz, Hussain Talat, Khushdil Shah, Mohammad Haris, Mohammad Nawaz, Mohammad Waseem Jnr, Sahibzada Farhan, Saim Ayub, Salman Mirza, Shaheen Afridi, Sufyan Moqim The match is scheduled to begin at 8 PM IST with both sides hungry to earn a key win. Fans should expect a fascinating encounter loaded with high pressure situations and significant performances.