Asia Cup 2022: Sri Lanka clinches its 6th title, beat Pakistan by 24 runs

Dubai (UAE), September 12: Bhanuka Rajapaksa's brilliant half-century, as well as fierce performances from pacer Pramod Madushan and spinner Wanindu Hasaranga, helped Sri Lanka win its sixth Asia Cup title on Sunday in Dubai, defeating Pakistan by a margin of 24 runs.

Rajapaksa (71*) and Hasaranga (36) helped them make a remarkable comeback from a difficult powerplay position to reach 170/6 in 20 overs. Despite a threatening stand of 61 runs between Mohammad Rizwan (55) and Iftikhar Ahmed, bowlers Wanindu Hasaranga (3/27) and Pramod Madushan (4/34) helped Lanka win by 24 runs (32). Pakistan gained some extra runs while attempting to chase down 171 as pacer Dilshan Madushanka lost nine more runs owing to wides and no-balls. The pacemaker, though, came back, giving just three more runs in his over. Following Sri Lanka's Asia Cup title win, team captain Dasun Shanaka dedicated the win to his country.

"We would like to dedicate this victory to our country. They all were waiting for this," said Shanaka.

The captain also revealed that the team had a serious discussion after their first loss to Afghanistan on the group stage. "We knew we had talent but it is about applying it in game scenarios. The players stood up, each and everyone contributed. This is the environment as a team that we have made," he further said. "We have got variety in our bowling. It is tough to chase 170 in the final. I think that last six by Bhanuka was special," he added.

Also Read | Sidhu Moosewala murder: Deepak Mundi with two aides taken to Mansa -PTC News