Dubai, 27 September (H.S.): India edged past Sri Lanka in a thrilling Super Four clash of the Asia Cup 2025, clinching victory in a dramatic Super Over after both teams finished level on 202 runs at the Dubai International Stadium. The result extended India’s unbeaten streak in the tournament to six matches and set up a high-voltage final against Pakistan.
Asked to bat first, India posted a strong 202 for 5 in their 20 overs, led by opener Abhishek Sharma’s fluent 61 off 31 balls and solid middle-order contributions from Sanju Samson (39) and Tilak Varma (49 not out). The innings was built on a rapid start, with Sharma registering his third half-century of the tournament and breaking the record for most runs by a batter in a single Asia Cup T20 edition. A late flourish from Axar Patel ensured India crossed the 200-run mark.
Sri Lanka responded with a spirited chase spearheaded by Pathum Nissanka, who dazzled with a scintillating century. His 107 off 58 deliveries, including powerful strokes all around the ground, combined with Kusal Perera’s quick 58, put the Indian bowlers under heavy pressure. The pair added 127 for the second wicket, briefly putting the chase in Sri Lanka’s control.
However, despite the momentum, Sri Lanka faltered in the final overs as India clawed back with crucial breakthroughs. The scores ended tied, pushing the contest into a Super Over.The tiebreaker was no less dramatic. Arshdeep Singh struck early but controversy erupted when Dasun Shanaka was adjudged caught behind, only for replays to show no edge. With the caught-behind decision making the ball “dead,” India lost the chance to complete a run-out, sparking long discussions on the field.
Ultimately, Sri Lanka managed only two runs in their Super Over, leaving India a modest target of three. Suryakumar Yadav and Shubman Gill completed the chase swiftly to seal the result.While the fixture was technically a dead rubber, with both finalist spots already decided, the contest lived up to its billing as a gripping encounter.
Sri Lanka exited the tournament with pride after Nissanka’s memorable century, while India used the contest as a valuable dress rehearsal ahead of their summit clash against arch-rivals Pakistan on Sunday.
Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar
