Dubai, September 26, 2025: Abhishek Sharma’s explosive half-century and Tilak Varma’s steady unbeaten knock propelled India to a commanding 202/5 in their ACC Men’s T20 Asia Cup 2025 Super Four clash against Sri Lanka at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium on Friday.
Opting to field first, Sri Lanka captain Charith Asalanka saw his decision backfire as India’s batting line-up piled on runs despite a shaky start. Spinner Maheesh Theekshana gave the Lions an early breakthrough by dismissing Shubman Gill (4) in the second over.
From there, Sharma took charge, smashing 61 off just 31 balls with 10 boundaries, including two sixes. He shared a brisk 59-run stand with captain Suryakumar Yadav (12) before falling to Asalanka in the ninth over.
Sanju Samson (39 off 27) then combined with Tilak Varma for a crucial 66-run fourth-wicket partnership, keeping India’s momentum intact. After Samson’s departure in the 16th over and Hardik Pandya’s dismissal soon after, India briefly stumbled at 162/5.
Varma, however, held firm with a composed 49* off 34 deliveries, guiding India to a strong finish alongside Axar Patel (21* off 15).
For Sri Lanka, wickets were shared evenly among Theekshana, Chameera, Hasaranga, Asalanka and Shanaka, who claimed one each but could not prevent India from crossing the 200-run mark.
