Sri Lankan skipper Dasun Shanaka showered praise on Kusal Mendis and Sadeera Samarawickrama after they won a thrilling contest against Pakistan by two wickets (DLS method) at the R. Premadasa Stadium, Colombo on Thursday.
Sri Lanka were cruising at one stage with 177-2 on the board while chasing 252 runs but lost wickets in a heap. However, Charith Asalanka was able to hold his nerves as he scored an unbeaten knock of 49 runs off just 47 balls. Sri Lanka needed six runs off the final two deliveries however Asalanka was able to take his team over the line in the run-chase.
Meanwhile, earlier Kusal Mendis scored a fine knock of 91 runs off just 87 balls with the help of eight fours and one six whereas Sadeera Samarawickrama scored 48 runs. The duo added 100 runs for the third wicket and helped Sri Lanka in the run-chase.
Dasun Shanaka said in the post-match presentation, “We had the game under control, but the loss of wickets took it till the last over. We gave them a chance to come back in the game, but we knew Charith could get us home. We had a discussion before batting and we discussed the mistakes we made in the India game.”
He added, “We gave away wickets in the first 10 overs, and Kusal and Sadeera played brilliant knocks. I think they are the best players of spin in the Sri Lanka squad. And Charith, he showed great character. Special feeling, back to back finals. I must thank the crowds who kept supporting us, and looking forward to the finals.”
On the other hand, Kusal Mendis was awarded Player of the Match for his match-winning knock as he batted at his absolute best. Mendis was glad to play a key role in the team’s win.
Mendis said after the game, “Happy with my performance, happy to get to the final. Those two wickets fell down and we were nervous, but with Charith in the middle we had hope. He’s done this in one game against Afghanistan. I think we also bowled really well, so happy to be in the final. Wanindu, Lahiru Kumara and Dushmantha are main bowlers, but we have these bowlers who are bowling well. This is a young unit. Thanks a lot to the fans for supporting us, please do so in the final as well.”
Sri Lanka will next take on India in the Asia Cup final at the R. Premadasa Stadium, Colombo on Sunday.
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