DUBAI: India held their nerve in a nail-biting finish to defeat Sri Lanka in a Super Over during the Super Fours stage of the Men’s T20 Asia Cup 2025 in Dubai.
Batting first, India posted a challenging 202 for 5 in 20 overs. Young opener Abhishek Sharma blazed 61 off just 31 balls, setting the tone for a strong innings, while Tilak Varma remained unbeaten on 49 to guide the total past the 200-mark.
Sri Lanka responded in style, matching India run for run. Pathum Nissanka struck a magnificent 107, his maiden T20I century, while veteran Kusal Perera added 58, ensuring the chase stayed alive. The Islanders too ended at 202 for 5, leaving the contest tied.
With the game heading to a Super Over, Indian pacer Arshdeep Singh delivered a stunning spell, conceding only two runs and grabbing two wickets. India’s captain Suryakumar Yadav then sealed victory with a boundary on the very first ball, sparking celebrations in the Indian camp.
Despite Sri Lanka’s defeat, Pathum Nissanka was named Player of the Match for his brilliant hundred.
This contest, though a “dead rubber” with both teams’ fate already decided, provided one of the most thrilling moments of the tournament. India, unbeaten so far, now advance to the Asia Cup final against arch-rivals Pakistan in Dubai on Sunday, September 28.
