HKG vs SL (8th Match) – Highlights
The 8th Match of the Men’s T20 Asia Cup 2025 between HKG and SL at Dubai’s DICS ground delivered an enthralling contest that kept fans on the edge of their seats. Chasing a competitive total of 150 set by Hong Kong, Sri Lanka emerged victorious by four wickets with seven balls to spare, thanks to a brilliant innings from Pathum Nissanka. The match showcased a mix of aggressive batting, disciplined bowling, and fielding efforts that made it a thrilling encounter in Group B.
HKG, batting first, started strongly with their openers Zeeshan Ali and Anshy Rath looking solid against the Sri Lankan pace attack. Zeeshan Ali contributed 23 runs off 17 balls before falling to Dushmantha Chameera. Anshy Rath carried the momentum, anchoring the innings with a patient 48 off 46 balls. Babar Hayat’s brief stay added little to the scoreboard as he was dismissed cheaply for 4. The standout performer for Hong Kong was Nizakat Khan, who remained unbeaten on 52 from 38 deliveries, striking four boundaries and two sixes. Captain Yasim Murtaza could not contribute much with the bat, falling for just five. Hong Kong’s innings ended at 149 for four in their allotted 20 overs, with extras adding 13 to the total, giving them a competitive yet chaseable target.
SL chase began cautiously with their openers trying to assess the pitch conditions. Kusal Mendis struggled for timing and was dismissed for 11 by Ayush Shukla. Kamil Mishara and Kusal Perera tried to steady the innings with contributions of 19 and 20 runs respectively. The match’s turning point was Pathum Nissanka’s explosive knock of 68 runs from 44 balls, featuring six boundaries and two sixes. Nissanka’s power hitting and timing took the pressure off his team and tilted the game in Sri Lanka’s favor. Despite losing wickets at regular intervals, the Sri Lankan middle and lower order held their nerve. Dasun Shanaka remained unbeaten on six, while Wanindu Hasaranga’s quickfire 20 off just nine balls sealed the victory.
Sri Lanka’s bowlers were disciplined from the outset. Dushmantha Chameera led the attack, taking two key wickets, while Wanindu Hasaranga chipped in with a crucial wicket, keeping the Hong Kong innings in check. Maheesh Theekshana bowled economically, giving away just 22 runs in his four overs. Nuwan Thushara had a challenging day, conceding 36 runs without success. For Hong Kong, Yasim Murtaza was the pick of the bowlers, claiming two wickets for 37 runs, while Ayush Shukla and Ehsan Khan picked a wicket each.
The match highlighted the depth and versatility of the Sri Lankan squad, with contributions from top-order batters, middle-order stabilizers, and finishers who ensured a successful chase.
Hong Kong vs Sri Lanka Scoreboard
Hong Kong – 149/4 (20)
Sri Lanka – 153/6 (18.5/20)
Result – Sri Lanka won by 4 wickets (with 7 balls remaining)
Player of the Match – Pathum Nissanka
Pathum Nissanka
HKG vs SL Playing XIs
Hong Kong | Zeeshan Ali (wicketkeeper), Anshy Rath, Babar Hayat, Nizakat Khan, Yasim Murtaza (captain), Aizaz Khan, Shahid Wasif, Kinchit Shah, Ehsan Khan, Ayush Shukla, Ateeq Iqbal |
Sri Lanka | Pathum Nissanka, Kusal Mendis (wicketkeeper), Kamil Mishara, Kusal Perera, Dasun Shanaka, Charith Asalanka (captain), Kamindu Mendis, Wanindu Hasaranga, Dushmantha Chameera, Maheesh Theekshana, Nuwan Thushara |
