Colombo - Kusal Mendis and Sadeera Samarawickrama's impressive performances, followed by Charith Asalenka's composure under pressure, propelled Sri Lanka into the eleventh Asia Cup final, marking their presence in 16 editions of the tournament.

On the back of these classy and aesthetically pleasing batters, Sri Lanka secured a 2-wicket (DLS) victory over Pakistan at the R Premadasa Stadium. The game, which commenced on Thursday, extended into the early hours of Friday.

Throughout the Sri Lanka leg of the tournament, the groundsmen were frequently called into action due to rain disruptions, and this match was no exception. The 3 pm game only started at 5.15 pm, with another rain delay at 7.32 pm. By the time Pakistan completed their innings, the clock had reached 9:21 pm.

Despite the stop-start nature of the game, Abdullah Shafique (52), Mohammad Rizwan (86 not out), and Iftikhar Ahmed (47) remained remarkably focused. Their ability to hold their own and reach 252 for 7 in 42 overs against Sri Lanka's bowling unit was commendable.

However, Sri Lanka did themselves no favors by conceding 13 wides and a no-ball. When they did find their line and length, they proved troublesome for Pakistan, although not insurmountable, as the final score indicates.

Fortunately, the pitch in this match was better than the one used against India earlier in the week, offering more even bounce and less turn. The bowlers needed to be disciplined, but given their recent workload, this was a tough ask.

However, Mohammad Rizwan stood out, displaying incredible hand speed and patience when Pakistan were struggling at 130 for five. Once he settled in, Rizwan expanded his scoring range, aided by the hard-hitting Iftikhar Ahmed.

Sri Lanka's response included the loss of a couple of early wickets, but Mendis and Samarawickrama found their rhythm, making it challenging for Pakistan's bowlers to stem the flow of runs. Despite their 100-run partnership, Sri Lanka faced a tricky situation as Pakistan remained disciplined and took wickets in quick succession, including those of Samarawickrama, Mendis, and Dasun Shanaka.

With 12 runs needed from 12 balls, Charith Asalanka's unbeaten 49 became crucial. Shahid Afridi made a late charge, picking up a couple of wickets in the penultimate over, leaving Sri Lanka with 8 runs to win from the last over.

Debutant Zaman Khan bowled effectively, but Sri Lanka secured victory with a thick edge to third man and a clever dink towards deep backward square off the very last ball. It was a moment of triumph for Asalanka, while Pakistan appeared dejected.

Now, only India stands in the way of Sri Lanka's seventh Asia Cup title.

Brief scores:
Pakistan: 252/7 in 42 overs (Abdullah Shafique 52, Babar Azam 29, Mohammad Rizwan 86 not out, Iftikhar Ahmed 47; Pramod Madushan 2-58, Matheesha Pathirana 3-65)
Sri Lanka: 252/8 in 42 overs (Pathum Nissanka 29, Kusal Mendis 91, Sadeera Samarawickrama 48, Charith Asalanka 49 not out; Iftikhar Ahmed 3-50, Afridi 2-52).
Result: Sri Lanka won by 2 wickets.