DUBAI: Pathum Nissanka’s composed half-century and a late cameo from Wanindu Hasaranga helped Sri Lanka survive a scare against Hong Kong to secure a four-wicket victory in the ACC Men’s T20 Asia Cup 2025 at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium on Monday.
Chasing 150, the defending champions appeared in control at 119 for 2 after 15 overs, with Nissanka well set. But his dismissal for 68 off 44 balls on the first delivery of the 16th over sparked a dramatic collapse.
Sri Lanka slipped to 127 for 6 within three overs as Hong Kong’s bowlers mounted pressure and briefly put an upset within reach.
Hasaranga, however, turned the game back in Sri Lanka’s favour with a blistering unbeaten 20 off nine deliveries, including two fours and a six, guiding his side home with seven balls to spare.
The victory was Sri Lanka’s second consecutive win in the tournament, making them Group B table-toppers with four points and placing them on the brink of Super Four qualification.
Earlier, Hong Kong posted a respectable 149 for 4 after being put into bat. Their innings was anchored by Nizakat Khan, who top-scored with an unbeaten 52 off 38 balls, featuring four fours and two sixes.
Anshuman Rath provided solid support with 48 from 46 deliveries. The pair’s 61-run stand for the third wicket laid the foundation for a competitive total.
Despite their spirited effort with the bat, Hong Kong’s middle and lower order failed to capitalise, with wickets falling at key moments.
For Sri Lanka, Dushmantha Chameera was the pick of the bowlers, taking 2 for 30, while Hasaranga and Dasun Shanaka chipped in with one wicket apiece.
Hong Kong’s bowlers then fought valiantly to defend the total. Captain Yasim Murtaza led from the front with 2 for 37, while Ayush Shukla, Ehsan Khan and Aizaz Khan claimed a wicket each.
Their efforts had Sri Lanka under pressure, particularly after Nissanka’s departure. But dropped catches proved costly, with Nissanka reprieved three times and Kusal Perera twice during his stay at the crease.
Nissanka’s innings of 68, laced with six fours and two sixes, proved decisive. It was his second half-century of the tournament and earned him the Player of the Match award.
The result ended Hong Kong’s spirited campaign, with the associate side showing commendable fight against the reigning champions but falling short at crucial moments.
Match Summary
Sri Lanka 153 for 6 (Nissanka 68, Hasaranga 20, Murtaza 2-37) beat Hong Kong 149 for 4 (Nizakat 52*, Rath 48, Chameera 2-30) by four wickets.
