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Former Indian all-rounder Irfan Pathan couldn’t resist indulging in some playful banter as Pakistan faced the bitter pill of elimination from the Asia Cup 2023. This scenario unfolded after an intense showdown with Sri Lanka on September 14 in Colombo.
Thrilling Super 4 clash between Pakistan and Sri Lanka:
In a high-stakes encounter between the co-hosts, adverse weather conditions shortened the match to 42 overs per side due to a rain delay. Pakistan took to the crease first and showcased their batting skills, amassing a formidable total of 252/7. The standout performances came from Mohammad Rizwan (86*) and Abdullah Shafique (52), who left their mark on the scoreboard.
Sri Lanka’s dramatic victory sets up final against India:
In response, Sri Lanka unleashed a spirited challenge, spearheaded by Kusal Mendis, who contributed an impressive 91 runs. The innings was further fortified by Sadeera Samarawickrama‘s valiant 48. However, the victory knock came from Charith Asalanka (49 not out), who displayed remarkable composure as he guided his team to a heart-stopping victory on the very last ball, securing a nail-biting two-wicket win.
Also READ: Netizens react as Tilak Varma receives his ODI debut cap; India makes 5 changes for Bangladesh clash – Asia Cup 2023
Irfan Pathan’s witty remarks as Pakistan bows out of the Asia Cup:
As the dust settled on this thrilling encounter, former Indian cricketer Irfan didn’t miss the opportunity to share his light-hearted observations on the social media platform X (formerly known as Twitter). He hinted that the forthcoming final between India and Sri Lanka promises to be a more evenly matched contest, a stark contrast to a potentially one-sided affair.
“Playing finals against Sri Lanka will be better for team India as it won’t be a one-sided affair,” Irfan wrote.
Playing finals against Sri Lanka will be better for team India as it won’t be a one sided affair.
— Irfan Pathan (@IrfanPathan) September 15, 2023
Team India’s path to the finals:
India have already booked their spot in the final, cruising through the Super-4 stage with impressive wins over Pakistan and Sri Lanka. Their victories included a commanding triumph over Pakistan, where they outclassed their rivals by a monumental margin of 228 runs at the R. Premadasa Stadium in Colombo. Subsequently, they secured a hard-fought 41-run victory against Sri Lanka in a closely contested, low-scoring encounter at the same venue.
Final showdown between two cricketing giants:
With the grand final just around the corner, India aims to clinch their eighth Asia Cup title, further solidifying their reign as champions. Meanwhile, Sri Lanka harbours hopes of securing their seventh Asia Cup title, setting the stage for what promises to be an enthralling championship game.
Also READ: Asia Cup 2023: Here’s why India spinner Kuldeep Yadav not playing today’s match against Bangladesh
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