PAK vs SL, Super-4: As Pakistan and Sri Lanka gear up for a high-voltage Super-4 clash in the Asia Cup 2025 today in Abu Dhabi, all eyes are on a familiar threat that could decide the fate of this battle – Sri Lanka’s deadly spin trio.
With conditions in Abu Dhabi favouring slower bowlers and large boundaries making power-hitting a risky affair, spin is expected to dominate the middle overs and Sri Lanka might just have the perfect weapons.
Historically, Sri Lanka have enjoyed success against Pakistan in T20s, especially when they’ve taken control during the middle phase of the innings.
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Wanindu Hasaranga
Hasaranga is more than just a wrist‑spinner: his ability to vary pace, flight, and use the googly at the right moment makes him dangerous in the middle overs. Pakistan has had moments where they cruised early, but Hasaranga tends to choke the flow, pick odd wickets, force risky shots. He’s coming off injury but was picked in the squad with that recovery in mind. That suggests Sri Lanka trust him to deliver under pressure.
Maheesh Theekshana
Sri Lanka love to use him when the pitch offers grip or when they need a slow‑spin variation. He has shown in past tournaments that when his control is good, he can run through spells. Pakistan’s batters historically sometimes struggle with his subtle drift, arm‑balls, and changes of pace. If Theekshana lands his lines tight, he can tie down one end and build pressure for the leg‑spinner to finish it off.
Dunith Wellalage
As a left‑arm orthodox spinner, he provides a different angle especially to right‑handed batters who are strong off‑side. His drift into the pads, flighted deliveries, and ability to exploit any turn or inconsistent bounce can cause issues. Sri Lanka have shown that bowling spinners from both sides gives them a tactical edge. He has been through personal tragedy (loss of his father) but has rejoined the squad, showing resilience. That mental toughness can translate into bowl under pressure.
The trio of Wanindu Hasaranga, Maheesh Theekshana, and Dunith Wellalage have the guile, variation, and experience to unsettle even the most composed batting lineups and Pakistan’s top order has shown cracks against quality spin in recent outings.
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