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In a dramatic Super 4 Asia Cup 2023 showdown at Colombo’s Premadasa Stadium on Thursday, Pakistan endured a crushing loss to Sri Lanka. The contest, a truncated 42-over affair, kept spectators on the edge of their seats as it went down to the wire.
In a test of nerves, Sri Lanka managed to maintain their composure, ultimately securing their ticket to the Asia Cup final. The outcome was a stunning upset, as Pakistan, the the prime favourites walking into the match, were left in disbelief following their unexpected defeat.
Dramatic last ball run-chase
In a high-stakes, dramatic last-over run-chase, Sri Lanka required eight runs off the final over; the pressure was palpable. Pakistan’s captain, Babar Azam, turned to Zaman Khan, to defend the target. The debutant delivered four exceptional deliveries, conceding just two runs, turning the tension a notch.
The Lankan side now needed six runs from the last two deliveries. The pacer charged in, attempting to deliver a wide yorker to Dhananjaya de Silva. However, the left-hander had other plans and went for a massive heave, resulting in an outside edge that raced to the boundary. It was heart-wrenching for the 22-year-old, who knew the game had just slipped through his side’s fingers.
The final ball arrived, and Zaman executed a slower ball on the off stump. It was a clever move, but Charith Asalanka was up to the task. He elegantly flicked the ball towards the vacant fine-leg area, allowing the Sri Lankan batters to comfortably complete the second run they needed. As the task was done, the players embraced and the local crowd erupted in celebration for the home team.
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Babar could not come to terms with the outcome; he flung his arms in frustration, questioning whether the fielder should have been positioned differently or if the bowler should have bowled it far from the reach of Asalanka. His expression told the story of a leader grappling with the agony of defeat. On the other hand, Zaman’ seemed in utter dejection. He knelt on the ground, almost motionless, as the weight of the loss bore down on him. The pain in his eyes spoke volumes, conveying the depth of disappointment and heartbreak he felt.
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Go big, or go home 🇱🇰
Sri Lanka takes that spot in the finals as they end Pakistan's journey in this tournament 💪🏼Watch #AsiaCup2023 only on #DisneyPlusHotstar, free on the mobile app.#PAKvSL #FreeMeinDekhteJaao #AsiaCupOnHotstar #Cricket pic.twitter.com/PFFTuwo2CO
— Disney+ Hotstar (@DisneyPlusHS) September 14, 2023
Sri Lanka will be locking horns against India in the final of the Asia Cup 2023 on September 17. The high-voltage encounter will be played at R. Premadasa Stadium, Colombo.
