Defending champions Sri Lanka, who had gone unbeaten through the group stage, were jolted by a four-wicket loss to Bangladesh in their Super 4 opener. The defeat not only disrupted their rhythm but also ended an impressive eight-match winning streak in the T20 Asia Cup.
Meanwhile, Pakistan has been grappling with off-field controversies that have overshadowed their middling performances on the field. The team is reeling after another humbling defeat at the hands of arch-rivals India on Sunday — their second loss to the ‘Men in Blue’ in this tournament.
At present, India and Bangladesh lead the standings with two points each, with Suryakumar Yadav’s side ahead due to a superior net run rate. Sri Lanka and Pakistan sit in third and fourth positions, respectively, making Tuesday’s clash a must-win for both teams.
Pakistan skipper Salman Agha now leads his side under mounting pressure, with the absence of senior stars Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan deepening the batting crisis. The lineup has struggled with both technique and temperament.
The bowling department has also struggled. Leg-spinner Abrar Ahmed, who had success against lower-ranked teams like Oman and the UAE, failed to find the right lengths against a dominant Indian lineup and was taken to the cleaners.
Sri Lanka, despite their strong run in the tournament, have their own challenges to address. A fragile middle order remains a concern, although Dasun Shanaka’s counterattacking knock at No. 5 against Bangladesh offered some respite. Pathum Nissanka, who impressed with back-to-back fifties in the group stage, has hit a rough patch, but Kusal Mendis and Kamil Mishara appear in good touch and could provide stability.
Promising all-rounder Dunith Wellalage has rejoined the squad after a brief absence due to his father’s death last week, a return that could boost both morale and squad depth.
Teams:
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
