Asia Cup 2025: Sri Lanka vs Hong Kong Highlights & Result – Match 8

Published - 16 Sept 2025, 00:06 IST | Updated - 16 Sept 2025, 00:10 IST

Sri Lanka narrowly avoided a major upset as they defeated Hong Kong by four wickets in the 8th match of the Asia Cup 2025 at the Dubai International Stadium. Sri Lankan skipper won the toss and opted to field first, but Hong Kong put up a spirited fight.

Hong Kong’s openers gave the tea side a steady start before Zeeshan Ali was dismissed for 23. Babar Hayat fell cheaply, but Anshuman Rath and Nizakat Khan stabilised the innings with a crucial stand. Rath played a fine hand of 48 runs, narrowly missing out on a half-century, while Nizakat carried his bat with an unbeaten 52 off 38 deliveries, laced with four boundaries and two sixes. Hong Kong posted a competitive 149/4 in 20 overs. For Sri Lanka, Dushmantha Chameera was the pick of the bowlers with 2/29.

In reply, Sri Lanka’s chase was anchored by opener Pathum Nissanka, who displayed composure amid regular wickets at the other end. Nissanka rode on his luck after getting multiple lives, striking a fluent 68 off 44 balls, including six fours and two sixes. Hong Kong’s bowlers kept the pressure on during the death overs after poor fielding earlier in the game. However, Wanindu Hasaranga swung the momentum back, smashing a quickfire 20 off nine balls to seal victory.

For Hong Kong, Yasim Murtaza impressed with figures of 2/37, but his efforts were not enough to stop Sri Lanka. The win marked Sri Lanka’s second victory of the tournament, while Hong Kong suffered their third consecutive defeat, effectively ending their campaign.

The middle-order batter Nizakat Khan and Anshuman Rath steadied Hong Kong’s innings and kept the runs flowing after early setbacks. Nizakat played a composed knock of 52* off 38 balls studded with four boundaries and two sixes, ensuring his side reached a competitive total.

Sri Lankan opener Pathum Nissanka once again rose to the occasion, registering his second half-century of the Asia Cup 2025. He anchored the innings with a fluent 68 off 44 balls, laced with six fours and two sixes. While wickets kept tumbling at the other end, Nissanka’s composure ensured Sri Lanka stayed on track in their chase.

Hong Kong’s bowlers showcased great discipline with tight lines and lengths, applying immense pressure on the Sri Lankan batters. In the death overs, they triggered a mini-collapse by claiming four quick wickets in just three overs. Pathum Nissanka’s run-out was followed by the dismissals of Kusal Perera, Charith Asalanka, and Kamindu Mendis, leaving the Islanders momentarily rattled before they eventually held their nerve.