How Can Sri Lanka Reach Asia Cup 2025 Final? Qualification Scenarios After Pakistan Loss

Defending champions Sri Lanka are facing a possible early exit from the Asia Cup 2025 after suffering their second successive Super Four match. They lost to Pakistan on Tuesday (September 19) at the Sheikh Zayed Stadium, leaving their qualification chances on a thread.

Charith Asalanka's team had previously lost to Bangladesh in their opening Super Four clash, and the recent loss has relegated them to the last position in the Super Four points table with zero points from two matches. They also have a negative Net Run Rate (NRR), which isn't helping with only a remaining match against India on Friday (September 26).

How Can Sri Lanka Qualify for Asia Cup 2025 Final?

The defending champions do not remain in control of their own fate. Sri Lanka will be eliminated even before their match against India if Bangladesh defeat both India and Pakistan.

In order for Sri Lanka to remain in the hunt, they have to win against India and hope Bangladesh win both their remaining games. This would result in a three-way tie between Sri Lanka, India, and Pakistan, and the Net Run Rate would determine which one will advance to the final.

Match Summary: Sri Lanka vs Pakistan

Pakistan, having won the toss, chose to field first. The bowlers got the early breakthrough, restricting Sri Lanka to just 133 runs. Kamindu Mendis was the only warrior with a gritty half-century, but the remaining batting line failed to impress.

Sri Lanka's bowlers provided themselves with an opportunity as Wanindu Hasaranga and Maheesh Theekshana picked up two wickets each, leaving Pakistan 80-5. The defending Asia Cup T20 champions, however, were not able to seal the win as Pakistan's tail guided them to victory.

The loss now leaves Sri Lanka having a mountain to move. From here on, their title defense hinges not just on how they play but also on the outcomes of other games.