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Defending champions India held their nerve in a dramatic finish on Friday, overcoming Pathum Nissanka’s breathtaking century and surviving a tense Super Over battle to defeat Sri Lanka in their final group game of the Asia Cup. Despite being a dead rubber with both sides already knocked out of contention, the contest delivered one of the most gripping spectacles of the tournament.
💥 Nissanka’s Heroics
Sri Lankan opener Pathum Nissanka produced one of the innings of the competition, blasting a sublime hundred that had the Indian attack on the ropes. With clean hitting, sharp placement, and impeccable timing, he dragged Sri Lanka back into the contest almost single-handedly.
His knock not only electrified the crowd but also forced India into desperation mode, showcasing why Nissanka is rated among Sri Lanka’s most promising batters.
🔥 India’s Fightback
India, already through to the next stage, used the match to test their depth. While the top order struggled to contain the Lankan charge, the middle order steadied the ship. Key cameos and disciplined bowling at the death ensured India managed to push the contest into a Super Over — avoiding what could have been a morale-sapping defeat.
🎯 The Super Over Drama
The final moments had fans on the edge of their seats:
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Sri Lanka’s chance: After Nissanka’s heroics, Sri Lanka needed just a solid Super Over to cap a famous win.
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India’s response: India’s bowlers, calm under pressure, nailed their yorkers and prevented Sri Lanka from capitalizing.
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Clinical finish: The Indian batters chased down the Super Over target with composure, sealing a thrilling victory.
The atmosphere in Colombo was electric, proving once again why cricket’s shortest formats can deliver the longest memories.
🏏 Why It Mattered
While the match had no bearing on the tournament standings, it carried significant importance:
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Momentum: India maintained their unbeaten streak, boosting confidence heading into the knockouts.
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Bench strength tested: Youngsters and fringe players got valuable experience under high pressure.
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Sri Lanka’s pride: Despite the loss, Nissanka’s innings was a reminder of Sri Lanka’s fighting spirit.
🔮 Looking Ahead
India head into the Super Four stage with momentum and belief, having survived a serious scare. Sri Lanka, though out of the tournament, will take heart from Nissanka’s brilliance and the fight they showed against one of the strongest teams in the competition.
✨ Conclusion:
The clash may have been a “dead rubber” on paper, but on the field it was anything but lifeless. With centuries, nail-biting drama, and a Super Over finish, India vs. Sri Lanka turned into an instant Asia Cup classic — and a reminder that in cricket, pride and passion often matter just as much as points.
💬 Social Media Caption:
“India survive Nissanka’s ton and Super Over drama to keep Asia Cup unbeaten streak alive! 🔥
