Introduction
The Asia Cup 2025 continues to produce gripping contests, and the Group B match between Sri Lanka and Hong Kong at the Dubai International Stadium proved to be a hard-fought encounter. Hong Kong, playing with determination, pushed the defending champions deep into the chase, but Sri Lanka held their nerve to register a 4-wicket victory with 7 balls to spare.
Match Overview
- Match: Sri Lanka vs Hong Kong, Group B, Asia Cup 2025
- Venue: Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai
- Date: September 15, 2025
- Result: Sri Lanka won by 4 wickets (153/6 in 18.5 overs)
- Player of the Match: Pathum Nissanka (68 off 44 balls)
Hong Kong Innings – 149/4 in 20 Overs
Hong Kong surprised many with a disciplined batting performance, building partnerships and keeping wickets intact. Captain Nizakat Khan led from the front with a fine 52 off 38 deliveries*, while Anshuman Rath played a steady 48 off 46. Their top-order partnership ensured Hong Kong posted a respectable total.
Top Performers (Hong Kong Batting):
- Nizakat Khan – 52* (38)
- Anshuman Rath – 48 (46)
- Zeeshan Ali – 23 (17)
Sri Lanka Bowling:
- Dushmantha Chameera – 2/29
- Nuwan Thushara-1/36
Sri Lanka’s Chase – 153/6 in 18.5 Overs
Chasing 150, Sri Lanka got off to a solid start thanks to Pathum Nissanka, who anchored the innings with a classy 68 off 44 balls, hitting crisp boundaries across the park. However, quick wickets in the middle overs, including Nissanka’s run-out, briefly swung momentum towards Hong Kong.
Just when the game seemed tense, Wanindu Hasaranga played a blistering cameo of 20 off 9 balls*, ensuring Sri Lanka crossed the finish line with 7 balls to spare.
Top Performers (Sri Lanka Batting):
- Pathum Nissanka – 68 (44)
- Kusal Mendis – 11 (14)
- Wanindu Hasaranga – 20* (9)
Hong Kong Bowling:
- Yasim Murtaza – 2/37
- Ayush Shukla – 1/26
Turning Points of the Match
- Nizakat & Rath’s Stand: Their partnership gave Hong Kong belief and set up a fighting total.
- Nissanka’s Masterclass: His knock kept Sri Lanka’s chase alive despite wickets at the other end.
- Hasaranga’s Finish: His quickfire 20* in the final overs sealed the victory under pressure.
Implications of the Result
- Sri Lanka: This win takes them to the top of Group B, strengthening their bid for Super Four qualification.
- Hong Kong: Despite their spirited show, Hong Kong’s campaign ended without a win.
Conclusion
Sri Lanka showed resilience and class in chasing down Hong Kong’s competitive total. While Hong Kong impressed with their batting partnerships and fighting spirit, the experience and composure of Sri Lanka’s stars — Nissanka and Hasaranga — proved decisive.
As the Asia Cup 2025 progresses, Sri Lanka look well-placed to challenge for another title, while Hong Kong will take valuable lessons from their campaign.
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