India clinched a dramatic Super Over victory against Sri Lanka in their final Super Four clash of the Asia Cup in Dubai. Indian captain Suryakumar Yadav was full of praise for his team’s character, specifically commending the performances of middle-order batsmen Sanju Samson and Tilak Varma, and Arshdeep Singh’s remarkable composure during the decisive Super Over, where Sri Lanka managed a mere two runs.
Despite being a ‘dead rubber’ fixture, the match escalated into an intense contest, with both sides tallying over 200 runs. A highlight was Sri Lanka’s Pathum Nissanka, who scored a brilliant century.
“It felt like a final, and the boys showed a lot of character after the first half in the second innings. I told the boys to have good energy and let’s see where we are at the end,” Suryakumar stated during the post-match presentation. “To have that start with the bat, and someone like Sanju and Tilak taking that tempo was good to see. And for someone like Sanju, who is not opening the batting, taking that responsibility, and even Tilak showing great confidence, which was good to see.”
Yadav lauded Arshdeep Singh’s consistent performance. “Arshdeep has delivered for us the last 2-3 years. I told him to back his own plans and try to execute. He has been there in that situation many times and he has done really well for India and for his IPL side. His confidence says it all. None other than Arshdeep to bowl that Super Over,” he added.
The Indian captain also noted that some players experienced cramps due to the heat but assured that a recovery day was planned before the finals.
Sri Lankan captain Charith Asalanka acknowledged Nissanka’s outstanding century and maintained a positive outlook despite his team’s winless Super Four stage run. “It was a fabulous game, and we were in the game until Varun and Kuldeep bowled those middle overs,” Asalanka remarked. “It was unbelievable batting (from Nissanka); they have some extremely good bowlers, and it was splendid to see him bat with that attacking approach. There were many positives from the Asia Cup. We have been playing good cricket, but unfortunately, we could not win in the last two games. As a captain, there are a lot of positives to take.”
After winning the toss, Sri Lanka opted to field first. India’s innings faced early setbacks with Shubman Gill falling for 4 and Captain Suryakumar scoring only 12 runs. Abhishek Sharma continued his exceptional form, smashing 61 off 31 balls, including eight fours and two sixes, making him the first batter to surpass 300 runs in the T20I Asia Cup. The crucial middle-order partnership between Tilak Varma (49 not out) and Sanju Samson (39) contributed a vital 66-run stand, propelling India to a total of 202/5 in their 20 overs.
Sri Lanka’s chase began shakily with Kusal Mendis dismissed for a golden duck. However, Pathum Nissanka and Kusal Perera launched a fierce counter-attack. Nissanka scored a magnificent 107 off 58 balls, supported by Perera’s 58 runs from 32 balls. Dasun Shanaka added a swift 22 runs, but ultimately, both teams were tied, leading to a Super Over.
In the bowling department, Kuldeep Yadav was India’s most successful bowler, taking 1/31. For Sri Lanka, Maheesh Theekshana and Wanindu Hasaranga each secured one wicket. The Super Over became the ultimate decider, with Arshdeep Singh’s exceptional bowling restricting Sri Lanka to just two runs while picking up two wickets. India comfortably chased down the target in a single ball. Nissanka was deservedly named Player of the Match for his century. This victory ensures India’s unbeaten record as they head to the final, while Sri Lanka, despite strong performances, exited the Super Four stage without a win.