Pakistan’s captain, Babar Azam, was left disheartened after his team’s dramatic exit from the Asia Cup 2023. The defending champions, Sri Lanka, secured a spot in the final after a thrilling last-ball victory at the R Premadasa Stadium in Colombo on September 14. Sri Lanka will now face India in the prestigious final on Sunday, September 17, at the same venue.
In a nail-biting encounter, both teams took the game down to the wire, with only two runs needed off the final ball. Pakistan pinned their hopes on debutant Zaman Khan, who had not been part of the squad until a couple of nights ago, to guide them to victory.
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Before the last ball was bowled, Babar was engaged in a lengthy discussion with the young pacer. Facing the daunting task of defending two runs off the final delivery, Zaman bowled a slower-length ball onto the pads. Charith Asalanka calmly clipped it towards deep square leg, securing a place for Sri Lanka in the final.
Go big, or go home 🇱🇰
Sri Lanka takes that spot in the finals as they end Pakistan’s journey in this tournament 💪🏼Watch #AsiaCup2023 only on #DisneyPlusHotstar, free on the mobile app.#PAKvSL #FreeMeinDekhteJaao #AsiaCupOnHotstar #Cricket pic.twitter.com/PFFTuwo2CO
— Disney+ Hotstar (@DisneyPlusHS) September 14, 2023
A visibly dejected Babar expressed his frustration with the delivery and the field setup, especially the absence of fielders on the leg side. Later, Zaman was seen on his knees, teary-eyed, reflecting the immense pressure of the situation.
Notably, Charith Asalanka displayed nerves of steel, scoring an unbeaten 49 off 47 balls to clinch the crucial contest. The wicketkeeper-batter, Kusal Mendis, was awarded the Player of the Match for his aggressive innings of 91 off 87, featuring eight fours and a maximum.
WATCH – Charith Asalanka Help Sri Lanka Register A Crucial Win Over Pakistan
Sri Lanka is now set to defend their title in the Asia Cup 2023 final against India. Meanwhile, Rohit Sharma’s Indian team will face Bangladesh in the final Super Four fixture on Friday, September 15, before gearing up for the championship clash against Sri Lanka.
