Sri Lankan spinner Wanindu Hasaranga truly stole the show during the Asia Cup 2025 match against Pakistan at Sheikh Zayed Cricket Stadium in Abu Dhabi. His performance was nothing short of spectacular, not only taking a stunning one-handed, low diving catch to dismiss Fakhar Zaman but also adding a touch of playful spice to the Super 4s game by mimicking Pakistan’s Abrar Ahmed’s unique celebration style.
The dramatic sequence unfolded after Sri Lanka posted a modest total of 133/8, with Kamindu Mendis being the sole half-centurion. Pakistan’s bowlers had earlier asserted dominance, with Shaheen Afridi claiming three crucial wickets and Abrar Ahmed showcasing an economical spell, conceding just 8 runs in his four overs.
The match’s undisputed highlight arrived during the very last ball of the powerplay. Hasaranga, with an athletic dive to his right at mid-off, snatched a breathtaking one-handed catch off Maheesh Theekshana’s bowling. The exceptional grab left Zaman visibly stunned and brought the crowd to its feet in applause.
The animated celebration rivalry began earlier when Abrar Ahmed had mimicked Hasaranga’s signature celebration after dismissing him during Sri Lanka’s innings. Hasaranga wasted no time in exacting his revenge, copying Abrar’s distinct style not once, but twice! He first replicated it after his incredible catch of Zaman, and then again after clean bowling Saim Ayub with a perfectly executed googly.
Despite Hasaranga’s individual brilliance, Sri Lanka ultimately faced elimination from the tournament after suffering their second consecutive defeat in the Super 4s stage. Pakistan, however, kept their hopes of reaching the final alive, securing a 5-wicket victory with 12 balls remaining.