Bangladesh to Clash with Pakistan in Final

Bangladesh ‘A’ have already guaranteed themselves a place in the final of the Asia Cup Rising Stars after a nail-biting super over victory against India. The team, captained by Akbar Ali with Ripon Mondol among the key players, had been awaiting their final opponent. That opponent has now been decided: Pakistan ‘A’, who earned a thrilling five-run semi-final win against Sri Lanka ‘A’ earlier today.

The semi-final was held at the West End Park International Cricket Stadium in Doha under lights. Pakistan batted first but struggled to post a big total, finishing 153 for 9 in 20 overs. Gazi Ghori led the batting effort with an unbeaten 39 from 36 deliveries. Sri Lanka’s Pramod Madushan was exceptional with the ball, taking 4 wickets for 29 runs, while Travin Mathew supported him with figures of 4 for 22.

Sri Lanka’s chase began explosively, with openers Lasith Kruspulle and Vishen Halambage adding 29 runs in just 1.2 overs. Kruspulle, hitting 2 fours and 3 sixes in just 7 balls for 27, was dismissed early, breaking the partnership. Halambage tried to keep Sri Lanka in the hunt with steady contributions, but wickets kept tumbling, leaving the team at 99 for 8.

Milan Ratnanayake emerged as the hero for Sri Lanka, forging a crucial ninth-wicket partnership of 47 runs with Travin Mathew. Their efforts revived hopes of chasing down the target, but Ratnanayake’s dismissal for 40 off 32 balls with just three balls remaining ended Sri Lanka’s challenge. They finished on 148 for 9. Pakistan’s Sada Masud and Sufian Mukim shared three wickets each. Halambage’s 29 off 27 deliveries was the highest for Sri Lanka.

The upcoming final between Bangladesh ‘A’ and Pakistan ‘A’ promises a high-octane contest. Bangladesh will look to continue their momentum after the super over triumph, while Pakistan aim to convert their consistent performances into the championship title, setting the stage for a thrilling conclusion to the tournament.