Bangladesh ‘A’ have confirmed their place in the final of the Asia Cup Rising Stars after a dramatic victory over India in a super over. The team, led by Akbar Ali and Ripon Mondol, had been eagerly awaiting the outcome of the second semi-final to learn their final opponent. That opponent has now been revealed as Pakistan ‘A’, who secured their final berth with a thrilling five-run win over Sri Lanka ‘A’ earlier today.
The semi-final clash between Pakistan and Sri Lanka took place at the West End Park International Cricket Stadium in Doha under lights. Sri Lanka won the toss and opted to field first, restricting Pakistan to a modest total. Pakistan managed 153 for 9 in their allotted 20 overs, with Gazi Ghori top-scoring with an unbeaten 39 off 36 balls. Sri Lanka’s Pramod Madushan was the pick of the bowlers, claiming 4 wickets for 29 runs, while Travin Mathew chipped in with 4 wickets for just 22 runs.
In reply, Sri Lanka got off to a blistering start. Openers Lasith Kruspulle and Vishen Halambage put on 29 runs in just 1.2 overs. Kruspulle’s rapid 27 off 7 balls, including 2 fours and 3 sixes, ended early at 1.3 overs, breaking the opening stand. Halambage tried to anchor the innings with small partnerships, but wickets continued to fall, leaving the team struggling at 99 for 8.
Milan Ratnanayake then played a heroic innings, putting together a ninth-wicket partnership of 47 runs with Travin Mathew and raising hopes of a remarkable chase. However, Ratnanayake’s dismissal for 40 runs off 32 balls, with just 3 deliveries remaining, sealed the match for Pakistan. Sri Lanka ended on 148 for 9. For Pakistan, Sada Masud and Sufian Mukim claimed three wickets apiece. Halambage was the top scorer for Sri Lanka with 29 runs off 27 balls.
With Bangladesh ‘A’ set to face Pakistan ‘A’, fans can expect an exciting and closely contested final as both sides look to lift the Rising Stars trophy.