New Delhi: In a heart-pounding showdown, Afghanistan narrowly missed out on securing a spot in the Super Fours of the Asia Cup 2023. Their hopes were dashed due to an inferior Net Run Rate, as they required a formidable chase of 292 runs in just 37.1 overs to qualify. Despite a valiant effort by the lower middle order, Afghanistan was bowled out for 289 in 37.4 overs at Lahore’s Gadaffi Stadium, paving the way for Sri Lanka to clinch the final Super Fours berth.

Sri Lanka’s gutsy win

Sri Lanka’s thrilling 2-wicket victory inched them into the Super Fours, solidifying their status as one of the tournament’s top contenders. Their remarkable win also extended their winning streak to an impressive 12 One Day Internationals (ODIs). Kusal Mendis was rightfully named the Player of the Match for his stellar 92-run performance.

Asia Cup 2023 Super Fours: What to Expect?

The Asia Cup 2023 Super Fours promises high-intensity cricket as four formidable teams gear up for fierce competition. Here’s an overview of the Super Fours schedule and what fans can anticipate:

Match 1 – September 6: The Super Fours kick off with a clash between Pakistan (A1) and Bangladesh (B2) in Lahore at 3:00 pm IST.

Match 2 – September 9: Sri Lanka faces Bangladesh in Colombo at 3:00 pm IST.

Match 3 – September 10: An epic showdown unfolds as Pakistan confronts arch-rivals India in Colombo at 3:00 pm IST.

Match 4 – September 12: India takes on Sri Lanka in Colombo at 3:00 pm IST.

Match 5 – September 14: Pakistan battles Sri Lanka in Colombo at 3:00 pm IST.

Match 6 – September 15: India clashes with Bangladesh in Colombo at 3:00 pm IST.

September 17 – The Grand Finale: The top two teams from the Super Fours stage go head-to-head in the final showdown in Colombo at 3:00 pm IST.

ALSO READ: Pakistan Raising Alarm On Terrorism? How Are Afghani Terrorists In Possession Of US Weapons?

Asia Cup 2023 Super Fours format

In this stage, all four teams (A1, A2, B1, B2) will compete against each other once. The top two teams at the conclusion of the Super Fours will battle it out in the grand final on September 17.

A1 – 𝐏𝐚𝐤𝐢𝐬𝐭𝐚𝐧
A2 – 𝐈𝐧𝐝𝐢𝐚
B1 – 𝐒𝐫𝐢 𝐋𝐚𝐧𝐤𝐚
B2 – 𝐁𝐚𝐧𝐠𝐥𝐚𝐝𝐞𝐬𝐡

Here are the top two teams from Group A and Group B of the Asia Cup 2023. pic.twitter.com/qzhmMKm0yj

— CricTracker (@Cricketracker) September 5, 2023

Asia Cup 2023 Super Fours: Venues

While one Super Fours match between Pakistan and Bangladesh on September 6 will take place in Pakistan, the remaining five matches, including the final, will be held in Sri Lanka. Despite initial considerations of relocating matches to Hambantota to avoid potential rain disruptions, the Asian Cricket Council decided to keep the venues unchanged, retaining Colombo as the host city for these exciting encounters.

Cricket enthusiasts can anticipate a thrilling Super Fours stage in the Asia Cup 2023, featuring intense rivalries and exceptional cricketing talent on display.