Sri Lanka narrowly avoided a major upset against Hong Kong in the Asia Cup 2025, securing a four-wicket victory with just seven balls to spare. The match, held at the Dubai International Stadium, saw Hong Kong put up a competitive total of 149/4, which Sri Lanka chased down with a score of 153/6 in 18.5 overs. However, the victory was far from comfortable for the defending champions, as they benefited from multiple dropped catches and a costly no-ball from the Hong Kong side.

Hong Kong's innings was built around a strong batting performance led by Nizakat Khan, who scored an unbeaten 52 off 38 balls, and Anshuman Rath, who contributed 48 runs. The pair added a crucial 61 runs for the third wicket, helping Hong Kong tackle Sri Lanka's spinners effectively. Dushmantha Chameera was the pick of the Sri Lankan bowlers, taking two wickets.

In response, Sri Lanka's chase was anchored by Pathum Nissanka, who scored a vital 68 off 44 balls. However, Hong Kong's bowlers, led by Yasim Murtaza, fought back, causing amini-collapse that saw Sri Lanka slip from 119/2 to 127/6. Nissanka was also dropped multiple times, which ultimately proved costly for Hong Kong.

According to reports, Hong Kong's fielding errors were a major factor in their defeat, with the team dropping as many as six catches. Several of these reprieves were handed to Nissanka, who capitalized on the opportunities. Kusal Perera was also dropped twice. Hong Kong skipper Yasim Murtaza lamented these missed chances, acknowledging that they "cost us the game".

Adding to Hong Kong's woes, a front-foot no-ball from Murtaza in the late overs proved to be a critical turning point. With 22 runs needed off 16 balls, the no-ball gave Sri Lanka a free hit, which Wanindu Hasaranga dispatched for a six, easing the pressure and guiding his team towards the finish line. Hasaranga ultimately sealed the win with back-to-back fours, finishing with an unbeaten 20 off 9 balls.

Despite the defeat, Hong Kong's performance was commendable, and they came close to causing a major upset against a strong Sri Lankan side. Nizakat Khan became only the second Hong Kong player to score a half-century in the T20 version of the Asia Cup. However, their inability to capitalize on chances in the field and the costly no-ball ultimately proved to be their undoing.

Sri Lanka's captain, Charith Asalanka, acknowledged the need for improvement in his team's performance. He expressed disappointment with key moments in the match and stressed the importance of consistent progress. Sri Lanka will look to build on this narrow escape as they progress further in the Asia Cup 2025. With this win, Sri Lanka sits at the top of Group B.