Asia Cup 2025: India-Pakistan Final Still Possible After Pakistan Beat Sri Lanka
The Super 4 stage of the Asia Cup 2025 has grown more exciting following Pakistan’s win over Sri Lanka on September 23. Fans are eagerly anticipating a potential India-Pakistan final. So far, India has defeated Pakistan twice in the tournament.
Currently, India, Pakistan, and Bangladesh all have two points each, while Sri Lanka, after suffering two consecutive losses, are already out of contention for the final. India tops the standings with a net run rate of +0.689, followed by Pakistan (+0.226) and Bangladesh (+0.121), keeping the possibility of an India-Pakistan final very much alive.
India’s Path to the Final
India are in a strong position and need to win just one of their remaining matches to secure a spot in the final. They will face Bangladesh on September 24 and Sri Lanka on September 26. Even if they lose one game, their superior net run rate gives them a significant advantage.
Pakistan’s Chances
Pakistan’s fate hinges on their September 25 match against Bangladesh. A win would take them to four points, almost certainly guaranteeing a final berth thanks to their better net run rate compared to Bangladesh. However, a loss would leave Pakistan with only two points, paving the way for a potential India-Bangladesh final instead.
In short, for an India-Pakistan final to happen, India must win at least one of their remaining matches, and Pakistan must defeat Bangladesh on September 25.
What Happened in Pakistan vs Sri Lanka
Despite most predictions favoring Sri Lanka, Pakistan kept their tournament hopes alive with a crucial victory in Abu Dhabi. Batting first, Sri Lanka struggled against Pakistan’s pace attack, managing 133 for 8 in 20 overs. Kamindu Mendis top-scored with 50 off 44 balls, supported by brief contributions from Dhananjaya de Silva and Wanindu Hasaranga.
Shaheen Afridi was the standout bowler, taking 3 wickets for 28 runs, including the early dismissal of Kusal Mendis on the second ball of the match. Hussain Talat and Haris Rauf claimed two wickets each.
In reply, Pakistan chased the target comfortably in 18 overs, finishing at 138 for 5. Mohammad Nawaz’s unbeaten 38 off 24 balls, along with Hussain Talat’s unbeaten 32, anchored the innings after early setbacks. The duo shared a 56-run partnership that guided Pakistan to victory.