Asia Cup 2025: Pakistan win toss, decide to bowl first against Sri Lanka

Abu Dhabi (Web Desk): Pakistan won the toss and decided to field first against Sri Lanka in their second Super Fours fixture of the Asia Cup 2025 at Sheikh Zayed Stadium, Abu Dhabi, on Tuesday.

Pakistan and Sri Lanka are set for a crucial Asia Cup 2025 Super Four clash with little to separate them in recent form but a rich history adding weight to the contest. The two sides have faced each other 23 times in T20 internationals, where Pakistan enjoy a slight edge with 13 victories against Sri Lanka’s 10.

However, the Asia Cup in its T20 format has largely favored Sri Lanka, who lead the head-to-head with two wins in three encounters, including their memorable triumph in the 2022 final.

Momentum also lies with Sri Lanka when it comes to recent meetings, as they remain unbeaten in their last five games against Pakistan in the shortest format. Both teams head into this fixture under pressure, having stumbled in their opening Super Four matches.

 Sri Lanka fell to Bangladesh by four wickets on Saturday, while Pakistan endured a six-wicket defeat to arch-rivals India the following day.

With net run rate keeping Pakistan below Sri Lanka in the points table, the contest carries added significance for both sides hoping to revive their campaigns.

Teams

Pakistan: Saim Ayub, Sahibzada Farhan, Fakhar Zaman, Salman Agha(c), Hussain Talat, Mohammad Haris(w), Mohammad Nawaz, Faheem Ashraf, Shaheen Afridi, Haris Rauf, Abrar Ahmed, Hasan Ali, Mohammad Wasim Jr, Salman Mirza, Sufiyan Muqeem, Khushdil Shah, Hasan Nawaz

Sri Lanka: Pathum Nissanka, Kusal Mendis(w), Kamil Mishara, Kusal Perera, Charith Asalanka(c), Dasun Shanaka, Kamindu Mendis, Wanindu Hasaranga, Dunith Wellalage, Dushmantha Chameera, Nuwan Thushara, Nuwanidu Fernando, Binura Fernando, Chamika Karunaratne, Janith Liyanage, Matheesha Pathirana, Maheesh Theekshana