Dubai, Sep 15: Opener Pathum Nissanka showcased his class and composure as Sri Lanka secured a hard-fought four-wicket victory over Hong Kong in a Group B Asia Cup encounter here on Monday. The win allowed the six-time champions to register a confident start to their campaign, despite a spirited effort from the Hong Kong side.
Electing to field first, Sri Lanka were up against a determined Hong Kong batting lineup that made the most of their 20 overs.
The visitors managed to post a competitive total of 149 for four, thanks largely to a classy unbeaten half-century from Nizakat Khan, who scored 52 not out.
His innings, studded with well-timed shots, kept Hong Kong in the hunt right till the end. Support came from Anshuman Rath, who contributed a crucial 48, while Zeeshan Ali chipped in with 23, ensuring Hong Kong reached a challenging yet attainable total against a strong Sri Lankan bowling attack.For Sri Lanka, pacer Dushmantha Chameera emerged as the most successful bowler, claiming two wickets for 29 runs. His disciplined line and length ensured Hong Kong’s innings never ran away from control, and he received crucial backing from the spinners in the middle overs.Chasing 150, Sri Lanka began their innings with intent, knowing that a positive start would set the tone for the rest of their campaign.
Pathum Nissanka led the charge with a remarkable display of timing and power. Facing just 44 deliveries, he scored a brisk 68, adorned with six crisp fours and two towering sixes. His innings provided the perfect anchor for the chase and set the platform for other batsmen to contribute confidently.Kusal Perera added a steady 20, rotating strike effectively, while Wanindu Hasaranga remained unbeaten on 20, guiding his team past the finish line with seven balls to spare. The partnership between Nissanka and Hasaranga, though not massive in runs, proved pivotal in steadying the innings during the tense phases of the chase.
Hong Kong’s Yasim Murtaza was the pick of the bowlers for his side, taking two wickets, but the rest of the attack struggled to make a significant impact as Sri Lanka steadily edged closer to their target. Despite the loss, Hong Kong’s batting showed glimpses of resilience, particularly in Nizakat Khan’s composed half-century and Rath’s fighting knock.With this win, Sri Lanka began their Asia Cup journey on a positive note, showcasing a blend of experience and youthful aggression. Their chase highlighted not only the importance of a solid start but also the value of partnerships in a limited-overs contest. (PTI)
BRIEF SCORE
Hong Kong: 149 for 4 in 20 overs (Nizakat Khan 52 not out, Anshuman Rath 48; Dushmantha Chameera 2/29).
Sri Lanka: 153 for 6 in 18.5 overs (Pathum Nissanka 68; Yasim Murtaza 2/37).
