Bogged down by early setbacks in the Super 4, both Sri Lanka and Pakistan will be desperate to register their first win in this critical stage of the Asia Cup when they lock horns here on Tuesday.
Defending champions Sri Lanka, who dominated the group stage unbeaten, were jolted by a four-wicket loss to Bangladesh in their Super 4 opener. The defeat not only disrupted their rhythm, but also put an end to their impressive eight-match winning streak in the T20 Asia Cup.
On the other hand, off-field issues have dominated headlines around the Pakistan team, overshadowing their performances on the field. They are in a mess after suffering yet another humbling defeat at the hands of India on Sunday, their second loss to the arch-rivals in this tournament.
India and Bangladesh have two points each with Suryakumar Yadav's men leading the standings on account of a superior net run rate. Sri Lanka and Pakistan occupy the third and fourth spots, respectively.
With little time for recovery, Pakistan skipper Salman Agha and his side are now in a must-win situation under mounting pressure. The absence of former skipper Babar Azam and senior batsman Mohammad Rizwan has only worsened the batting crisis, exposing a lineup short on technique and temperament.
Against India, top order batters Sahibzada Farhan, Fakhar Zaman and Saim Ayub offered a glimmer of hope by taking their side to 90/1 to give a promising start.
Ayub, in particular, showed signs of resurgence after three consecutive ducks. However, the Pakistan innings fizzled out in the second half, once again highlighting their inability to handle pressure.
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The bowling unit, too, has struggled. Leg-spinner Abrar Ahmed, who found success against lower-ranked teams like Oman and the UAE, failed to find the right length against a flamboyant Indian batting line-up and remained at the receiving end.
Sri Lanka, despite their strong run, have their own set of issues to iron out. A fragile middle order remains a concern, though Dasun Shanaka's counterattacking knock at No. 5 against Bangladesh offered some hope.
Pathum Nissanka, the standout performer with back-to-back fifties in the group stage, has hit a rough patch. However, Kusal Mendis and Kamil Mishara appear to be in good touch and could provide much-needed stability.
In the bowling department, pacer Nuwan Thushara has impressed, currently the fourth-highest wicket-taker in the tournament with six dismissals. Spin wizard Wanindu Hasaranga, along with Dushmantha Chameera, Charith Asalanka, and Shanaka, have also done well in this tournament. Meanwhile, in a morale booster for Sri Lanka, all-rounder Dunith Wellalage has rejoined the squad after a brief absence following the death of his father last week.
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