Mohammad Nawaz and Hussain Talat led a remarkable comeback to revive Pakistan’s hopes, as Salman Agha’s squad secured a five-wicket victory over Sri Lanka in a crucial Super Four clash at the Asia Cup in Abu Dhabi on Monday.
Pakistan, chasing a modest target of 134, faced significant challenges after losing their fifth wicket at 80 in the 12th over.
Despite their commendable strike rate, the team risked running out of steam in the intense heat and humidity.
However, a brilliant unbroken sixth-wicket stand of 58 runs between Nawaz (38 not out from 24 balls, including 3 fours and 3 sixes) and Talat (32 not out from 30 balls, with 4 fours) ensured victory with 12 balls remaining.
Having lost their first Super Four match against India, Pakistan has now re-entered the race for the final.
Earlier, pace ace Shaheen Shah Afridi (4-0-28-3) and Talat (3-0-18-2) delivered outstanding bowling performances for Pakistan.
Spinner Abrar Ahmed was even more impressive, conceding just eight runs in his four overs and taking the wicket of Sri Lankan all-rounder Wanindu Hasaranga.
Despite their second consecutive Super Four loss, Sri Lanka still has a slim chance of reaching the final, according to ESPNcricinfo.
Sri Lanka needs Bangladesh to win both of their remaining matches—against India and Pakistan—and must defeat India by a considerable margin.
Sri Lanka faces many uncertainties, but Pakistan is optimistic about defeating Bangladesh in their final Super Four game on Thursday to secure a spot in Sunday’s final.
