Thu Sep 18 17:10:00 UTC 2025: **Sri Lanka Secures Asia Cup Victory Over Hong Kong Despite Late Scare**

**Dubai, UAE** – Pathum Nissanka’s explosive half-century powered Sri Lanka to a four-wicket victory over Hong Kong, China in their Asia Cup Group B clash on Monday. Nissanka’s 68 off 44 balls, which included multiple reprieves thanks to sloppy fielding by Hong Kong, ultimately overshadowed a late-innings collapse that threatened to derail the chase.

Hong Kong, China, batting first, posted a competitive 149/4, led by captain Nizakat Khan’s 52* and Anshuman Rath’s impressive 48. Their innings, though steady, failed to fully capitalize in the final overs.

Sri Lanka’s chase initially faltered, with Hong Kong’s bowlers keeping them in check during the Powerplay. However, Nissanka’s aggressive stroke-play turned the tide, punishing Hong Kong’s bowlers and capitalizing on dropped catches. He reached his half-century in just 35 balls.

Just as Sri Lanka looked set for a comfortable win, Nissanka’s dismissal triggered a dramatic collapse, with the team losing four wickets for just eight runs. Kusal Perera was dismissed the very next ball. Sri Lanka needed 32 from the last 3 overs but Wanindu Hasaranga calmed frayed nerves with a six and two fours to finish the game with 7 balls remaining.

**Brief Scores:**

* **Hong Kong, China:** 149/4 in 20 overs (Nizakat Khan 52*, Anshuman Rath 48; Dushmantha Chameera 2-29)
* **Sri Lanka:** 153/6 in 18.5 overs (Pathum Nissanka 68, Wanindu Hasaranga 20*; Yasim Murtaza 2-37)

Sri Lanka now have two wins in the group stage.

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