Sri Lanka reaches third consecutive Asia Cup final after beating Pakistan

Sri Lanka suffered an early setback, losing two wickets for just 5 runs and seeing four fall by the time the score reached 33. However, the Lankan women staged a remarkable comeback to surpass Pakistan's target of 131 runs with eight balls to spare.

With this victory, defending champions Sri Lanka secured their spot in the Women's Asia Cup final for the third consecutive time.

Pakistan posts 130 runs

Pakistan and Sri Lanka faced off in the tournament's second semi-final at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium. Batting first after losing the toss, Pakistan scored 130 for 5 in their allotted 20 overs.

Captain Fatima Sana was the team's top scorer with 47 runs. Her innings—comprising four boundaries and two sixes off 36 balls—provided Pakistan with a competitive total. Tuba Hassan remained unbeaten on 12.

For Sri Lanka, captain Chamari Athapaththu and Chamudi Prabodha claimed two wickets each.

Early trouble for Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka’s start to the chase of 131 runs was disappointing; they lost captain Chamari Athapaththu and Sanjana Kavindi with the score at just 5.

The Lankans came under further pressure when Hasini Perera (3) and Imesha Dulani (24) were dismissed.

However, Harshitha Samarawickrama and Kavisha Dilhari steadied the ship. A crucial 67-run partnership between the two brought Sri Lanka back into the match.

Harshitha scored 36 runs, and Kavisha scored 33.

Victory with 8 balls to spare

Towards the end, Nilakshika Silva (18 off 10 balls) and Kaushani Nuthyangana (10 off 4 balls) played effective cameos.

Riding on their contributions, Sri Lanka reached the winning target with four wickets down and eight balls remaining.

Pakistan captain Fatima Sana took a match-high four wickets, but her brilliant bowling effort could not propel her team to the final.

India vs. Sri Lanka in the final

After defeating Pakistan, Sri Lanka will face India in the final. The final of the Women's Asia Cup 2026 will be held in Dubai tomorrow, Sunday, at 8:30 PM.

India has won the Women's Asia Cup a record seven times so far. Sri Lanka has claimed the title twice. The Bangladesh women's team has also won the Asia Cup title once.