How Did Nissanka and Hasaranga Lead Sri Lanka to Victory Over Hong Kong?
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Synopsis
In an electrifying Asia Cup encounter, Sri Lanka edged past Hong Kong by four wickets, thanks to Pathum Nissanka's stellar 68 and Wanindu Hasaranga's clutch performance. Both players showcased their skills under pressure, propelling Sri Lanka to a victory that secured their place in the tournament's next phase. Explore the thrilling moments that defined this captivating match.
Key Takeaways
- Pathum Nissanka showcased impressive batting skills with a score of 68 runs.
- Wanindu Hasaranga played a crucial role, scoring 20 runs in a high-pressure situation.
- Sri Lanka managed to chase down the target with seven balls to spare.
- Hong Kong's missed chances, including dropped catches, were pivotal in the match outcome.
- This match marked the first thrilling game of the tournament.
Dubai, Sep 15 (NationPress) Pathum Nissanka delivered a remarkable performance with a score of 68 runs off 44 balls, while Wanindu Hasaranga contributed a vital unbeaten 20 from just nine deliveries, steering Sri Lanka to a tense four-wicket victory against Hong Kong in their Asia Cup Group B encounter held at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium on Monday.
In pursuit of 150 runs, Sri Lanka appeared set for a comfortable chase, largely due to Nissanka's exquisite shot-making. However, Hong Kong made a commendable comeback, unsettling Sri Lanka's middle order. Ultimately, Sri Lanka's batting depth enabled them to secure the win with seven balls remaining in what turned out to be the tournament's first nail-biter.
Hong Kong will regret missed chances, including six dropped catches and a crucial no-ball by captain Yasir Murtaza in the 18th over, which proved pivotal. They had Sri Lanka under pressure and could have achieved a memorable upset, but instead concluded their campaign with lingering 'what-if' thoughts.
The chase commenced with Nissanka demonstrating confidence, hitting a boundary over mid-on off Murtaza, before narrowly avoiding an lbw decision after a review against Ayush Shukla. A momentum shift occurred in the fourth over when Nissanka cleared the boundary off Shukla, complemented by Kusal Mendis, who struck two leg-side boundaries.
However, Mendis, aiming to accelerate, misplayed a pull shot off a short ball and was caught at deep square leg off Shukla, leaving Sri Lanka at 35/1 after the power-play. Kamil Mishara then hit a towering six off Murtaza and followed it with a boundary through cover off Kinchit Shah.
Hong Kong's strategy of slower short balls paid off when Mishara was caught at deep mid-wicket off Aizaz Khan. Nissanka kept the momentum alive with blistering boundaries off Aizaz and Ehsan Khan, reaching his fifty in just 35 balls.
Despite Kusal Perera receiving two lifelines off Shukla in the 14th over, Nissanka continued to find the gaps, hitting consecutive boundaries. A dropped catch by Anshuman Rath at deep mid-wicket, followed by another reprieve from Ehsan, highlighted Hong Kong's fielding woes. Suddenly, Hong Kong seized the initiative - Nissanka was run out and Perera was dismissed lbw by Murtaza.
The collapse continued as Charith Asalanka fell to a catch at short third man off Ehsan, and Kamindu Mendis was caught at deep mid-wicket off Murtaza. Yet, Hasaranga stood firm under pressure, hitting Murtaza for a six (on a free hit) and a four, before striking consecutive boundaries off Ateeq Iqbal, helping Sri Lanka navigate past the Hong Kong threat with a crucial cameo.
Brief Scores: Hong Kong 149/4 in 20 overs (Nizakat Khan 52 not out, Anshuman Rath 48; Dushmantha Chameera 2-29, Dasun Shanaka 1-5) lost to Sri Lanka 153/6 in 18.5 overs (Pathum Nissanka 68, Wanindu Hasaranga 20 not out; Yasim Murtaza 2-37, Ehsan Khan 1-25) by four wickets
Point of View
Sri Lanka's triumph over Hong Kong in the Asia Cup is a testament to their resilience and depth in batting. Despite a shaky middle order, the team's ability to adapt under pressure speaks volumes about their preparations. This match not only showcases the competitive spirit of the Asia Cup but also highlights the potential of emerging teams like Hong Kong.
NationPress
15/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the final score of the match?
Sri Lanka scored 153 runs for the loss of 6 wickets in 18.5 overs, defeating Hong Kong, who scored 149 runs for 4 wickets in their 20 overs.
Who were the standout players in the match?
Pathum Nissanka was the standout player for Sri Lanka with 68 runs, while Wanindu Hasaranga played a crucial role with an unbeaten 20 runs.
How did Hong Kong perform in the match?
Hong Kong had a commendable performance, scoring 149 runs, but missed opportunities in the field, including dropped catches, ultimately cost them the match.
What were the key moments in the match?
Key moments included Nissanka's impressive fifty, Hong Kong's dropped catches, and Hasaranga's impactful late innings that secured the win for Sri Lanka.
What does this victory mean for Sri Lanka in the Asia Cup?
This victory secures Sri Lanka's position in the tournament and demonstrates their ability to perform under pressure, setting a positive tone for the upcoming matches.
