The high-stakes Pakistan vs. Sri Lanka Asia Cup Super 4 encounter has been further disrupted by rain, with the match now reduced to 42 overs per side.
With both teams needing to win to qualify for the final against India, the weather hasn’t been kind to the virtual semi-final in Colombo.
After the game was initially shortened to 45 overs due to a delayed start, more rain led to a further cut down to 42 overs per inning.
Pakistan’s innings is currently in progress at 205/5 after 37.5 overs. Abdullah Shafique top-scored with a maiden ODI fifty before falling to spinner Wanindu Hasaranga after a 64-run second-wicket stand with skipper Babar Azam.
The middle order once again failed to capitalize as Pakistan slipped from 130/1 to 166/5 within a space of 37 deliveries. Mohammad Nawaz and Mohammad Wasim Jr. are currently at the crease hoping to take Pakistan to a competitive total.
However, with a superior net run rate, Sri Lanka will go through to the final if the match ends with no result. This puts immense pressure on Pakistan to bat big should they win the toss and bat first.
An already difficult task has become tougher for the Men in Green with the reduced overs. Their bowling attack also faces a stiff examination against the talented Lankan batting lineup on a track expected to favor spin.
Can Pakistan defy the odds and weather disruptions to eke out the win they desperately need? Or will the spirited Lankans edge them in a thriller? The stage is set for a tense, high-stakes clash between the two familiar foes.
