(Image Source: Instagram)
[Saba Sports News] Pakistan suffered a heartbreaking two-wicket loss to Sri Lanka in the Asia Cup 2023 Super 4 fixture on September 14. Babar Azam‘s team lost on the last ball as Charith Asalanka secured six runs off the final two balls to propel Sri Lanka into the tournament final.
After Pakistan’s defeat, Babar’s father, Azam Siddiqui, issued a statement on Instagram, expressing pride in the team’s efforts despite adversity. He praised bowler Zaman Khan and emphasized the importance of intentions and actions from the heart. Siddiqui conveyed his support for the team and encouraged unity.
In the match, Pakistan won the toss and chose to bat, recovering from a precarious 130/5 with Mohammad Rizwan (86*) and Iftikhar Ahmed (47) sharing a vital 108-run partnership to reach 252/7 in 42 overs.
In response, Sri Lanka seemed on track for the chase, with Kusal Mendis (91) and Sadeera Samarawickrama (48) contributing 100 runs for the fourth wicket. However, they lost wickets quickly, and Charith Asalanka’s composed 49* off 47 saw Sri Lanka home on the final ball of the over. This result eliminated Pakistan from the Asia Cup 2023, with Sri Lanka advancing to the final against India on Sunday, September 17, at R.Premadasa Stadium in Colombo.