Pakistan A vs Sri Lanka A, 2nd Semi-Final (B1 v A2)

The 2nd Semi-Final of the ACC Mens Asia Cup Rising Stars 2025 sets Pakistan A against Sri Lanka A at the West End Park International Cricket Stadium, promising an intense T20 clash. Pakistan A have displayed consistent form throughout the tournament, powered by their young batting stars and a balanced bowling attack. Their ability to build competitive totals and defend them under pressure has been their hallmark. Meanwhile, Sri Lanka A’s journey to the semi-finals has relied on resilient middle-order batting and a sharp spin attack that has exploited subcontinental pitches well. Historically, these two sides have met on numerous occasions in youth and A-team cricket, with Pakistan A holding a slight edge in head-to-head matches, thanks to their aggressive opening partnerships and death-over specialists. Key players for Pakistan A include their explosive opener and a crafty wrist-spinner, both having delivered match-winning performances recently. Sri Lanka A counters with dependable middle-order batsmen and a leg-spinner who has troubled Pakistan A’s line-up in previous fixtures. Strategically, Pakistan A will likely aim to seize the initiative early with quick runs in the powerplay, supported by bowlers who can maintain tight lines to restrict scoring opportunities. Sri Lanka A, on the other hand, might focus on building partnerships and leveraging spin in the middle overs to choke the run flow and capitalize during the death overs. Given the recent performances and tactical nuances, the contest is evenly poised but leans slightly towards Pakistan A owing to their superior momentum and bench strength.

Winning Probability: Pakistan A: 56%, Sri Lanka A: 44%

If Pakistan A bat first, they are expected to post a competitive total in the range of 160-170 runs considering the balanced pitch that offers both batting and bowling assistance. Their aggressive power hitters can exploit the field restrictions early. Conversely, should Sri Lanka A bat first, a total around 155-165 is likely, built on steady innings from their middle order and effective use of pace and spin to accelerate towards the end. The conditions suggest achievable targets for both teams with emphasis on fast starts and substantial partnerships to win the toss and set the tone.

The West End Park International Cricket Stadium typically offers a balanced pitch that assists both batsmen and bowlers. The surface tends to have a true bounce with some help for spinners as the game progresses. Historically, the average first-innings score here is around 162 runs, with chasing sides having a slight advantage, winning 55% of matches. Weather on match day forecasts clear skies with mild temperatures and minimal wind, ideal for a high-scoring encounter. Notable performances at this ground include a 4-for spell by Pakistan A's left-arm spinner, their best bowling performance, and a 78-run knock by Sri Lanka A's aggressive opener, marking the best batting effort between the sides here.

Matches Played	Pakistan A Wins	Sri Lanka A Wins	Draw/No Result
12	7	4	1

Team Recent Performance

Team	Last 5 Matches	Wins	Losses
Pakistan A	W, W, L, W, W	4	1
Sri Lanka A	W, L, W, L, W	3	2

Pakistan A - Mohammad Saad: The tournament’s leading run-scorer so far, Saad has been pivotal at the top order with three half-centuries and excellent strike rotation.

Pakistan A - Hasan Ali (Spinner): This wrist-spinner has bowled economically with 8 wickets in 5 games, troubling batsmen with his variations and control.

Pakistan A - Fahad Nawaz: A death-over specialist bowler who has captured crucial wickets and kept the economy rate low in tight finishes.

Sri Lanka A - Dhanushka Perera: Known for his resilient middle-order batting, Perera has contributed 150+ runs in the tournament, often stabilizing the innings post powerplay.

Sri Lanka A - Ruwan Kumara: A leg-spinner with 7 wickets, Kumara has effectively contained runs and taken breakthroughs during middle overs against strong batting lineups.

Sri Lanka A - Lahiru Silva: An agile fielder and fast bowler, Silva has impressed with crucial breakthroughs in the death overs and tight bowling spells.