Abu Dhabi, Sept 26: In a match that had fans on the edge of their seats, India and Sri Lanka went head-to-head in a pulsating contest that eventually ended in a Super Over, with the Men in Blue emerging victorious in dramatic fashion.
The high-scoring encounter showcased explosive batting, resilient partnerships, and clinical finishing, keeping the Asia Cup audience enthralled till the final delivery.
Opting to bat first, India became the first team in the ongoing tournament to cross the 200-run mark, posting a formidable 202 for five.
In-form opener Abhishek Sharma continued his sensational run, smashing a 31-ball 61, while Tilak Varma’s unbeaten 49 ensured India finished with a challenging total. The middle order, which had been a cause for concern, found solace in Sanju Samson’s brisk 39 off 23 balls, forming a vital 66-run partnership with Varma for the fourth wicket.
Vice-captain Shubman Gill (4) and skipper Suryakumar Yadav (12) struggled once again, unable to make significant contributions, but Axar Patel chipped in with a quick 21 off 15 balls to push India past the 200-run mark.
The Charith Asalanka-led Sri Lankan side, defending champions of the Asian T20, began their chase with an early blow as Hardik Pandya struck in the very first over, dismissing Kusal Mendis for a duck. However, Sri Lanka’s hopes were revived thanks to a scintillating partnership between Pathum Nissanka and Kusal Perera.
Both batters launched counter-attacks, scoring half-centuries off just 25 balls each, and stitched together a remarkable 127-run stand for the second wicket that brought Sri Lanka back into the contest and put them in a strong position midway through the chase.
Varun Chakaravarthy eventually broke the dangerous partnership by dismissing Perera, but Nissanka’s determination saw him reach a well-deserved century.
Despite further breakthroughs from Kuldeep Yadav and Arshdeep Singh, including dismissals of Charith Asalanka and Kamindu Mendis, Nissanka remained the backbone of the innings until Harshit Rana finally got him out in the final over.
With the scores tied at the end of the allotted 20 overs, the match proceeded to a Super Over. Sri Lanka managed only two runs, giving India a chance to chase the tiny target comfortably on the first ball, sealing a thrilling victory.India, who had already qualified for the final and are chasing their sixth consecutive win in the tournament, were able to flex their dominance once again. Sri Lanka, on the other hand, will rue missed opportunities despite the brilliance of Nissanka and Perera, as back-to-back losses have left them seeking a consolation win.In the end, it was India’s composure under pressure and timely strikes with both bat and ball that made the difference. (Agencies)
