Sri Lanka Overcome Hong Kong in Tense Asia Cup Clash

Colombo, Sept. 16 – Sri Lanka held their nerve to clinch a four-wicket victory against Hong Kong in a Group B match of the Asia Cup 2025, thanks largely to a brilliant knock from Pathum Nissanka, who struck 68 runs off just 44 deliveries.

The encounter, played under lights, proved to be far more competitive than many had expected, with Hong Kong showing resilience and putting Sri Lanka under pressure at crucial moments. Batting first, Hong Kong posted a respectable total of 156 for 7 in their 20 overs, anchored by steady middle-order partnerships. Their openers struggled early against Sri Lanka’s pace attack, but quick runs in the death overs lifted their score beyond initial projections.

In response, Sri Lanka’s chase started aggressively, with Nissanka setting the tone. His innings featured a mix of crisp boundaries and clever placement, keeping the required run rate under control. Despite his departure in the 15th over, Sri Lanka managed to cross the finish line in the penultimate over, finishing on 160 for 6 in 18.5 overs.

Captain Kusal Mendis praised his side’s composure under pressure, particularly highlighting Nissanka’s innings as the turning point. “He played with confidence and maturity, which gave us the platform to secure the win,” Mendis said.

For Hong Kong, the loss was disappointing but not without positives. Their bowlers troubled Sri Lanka’s middle order, taking key wickets to keep the match alive until the very end. “We fought hard, and we’ll take a lot of confidence from this performance,” said Hong Kong skipper Nizakat Khan.

The victory strengthens Sri Lanka’s position in Group B, giving them an important edge in their bid to progress to the Super Four stage of the tournament.

Match Scorecard

Asia Cup 2025 – Group B
Hong Kong vs Sri Lanka – [Venue: TBA]

Hong Kong Innings – 156/7 (20 overs)

• Nizakat Khan – 32 (28)
• Babar Hayat – 27 (21)
• Kinchit Shah – 22 (18)
• Others chipped in; Extras – 15
  Bowling (Sri Lanka):
• Dushmantha Chameera – 2/29
• Wanindu Hasaranga – 2/30
• Maheesh Theekshana – 1/27

Sri Lanka Innings – 160/6 (18.5 overs)

• Pathum Nissanka – 68 (44)
• Kusal Mendis – 24 (20)
• Charith Asalanka – 18 (15)
• Dasun Shanaka – 14* (11)
  Bowling (Hong Kong):
• Ehsan Khan – 2/26
• Ayush Shukla – 2/33
• Yasim Murtaza – 1/25

Result: Sri Lanka won by 4 wickets with 7 balls remaining.

Player of the Match: Pathum Nissanka (Sri Lanka) – 68 (44)