Pakistan A (PAK A) will be facing off against Sri Lanka A (SL A) in a highly anticipated semi-final match in the 2025 Asia Cup Rising Stars tournament at the West End Park International Cricket Stadium in Doha on Friday, November 21.
Pakistan A, led by Irfan Khan, topped Group B by winning all three of their matches. Their impressive eight-wicket victory against arch-rivals India has boosted their confidence going into the semi-finals. While their wins against Oman and the UAE were expected, their dominating performance against India showcased their strength and determination.
On the other hand, Dunith Wellalage’s Sri Lanka A team had a rocky start to their campaign with a three-wicket loss to Afghanistan A. However, they bounced back with consecutive wins against Hong Kong and Bangladesh A to secure a spot in the knockouts.
Match Details:
Venue: West End Park International Cricket Stadium, Doha
Pitch Report: The pitch has significantly slowed down as the tournament has progressed. Chasing teams have had better success, winning eight out of the 12 matches played so far. The average first-innings total has been around 153.
Head to Head: PAK A vs SL A
Predicted Playing 11s:
Pakistan A: Mohammad Naeem, Maaz Sadaqat, Ghazi Ghori (WK), Yasir Khan, Mohammad Faiq, Irfan Khan (C), Arafat Minhas, Muhammad Shahzad, Shahid Aziz, Ahmed Daniyal, Sufiyan Muqeem.
Sri Lanka A: Nishan Madushka (WK), Vishen Halambage, Lasith Croospulle, Nuwanidu Fernando, Sahan Archchige, Ramesh Mendis, Dunith Wellalage (C), Milan Rathnayake, Pramod Madushan, Garuka Sanketh, Traveen Mathew.
Probable Top Performers:
Best Batter: Maaz Sadaqat
Maaz Sadaqat has been exceptional in the tournament, scoring 212 runs in three matches without being dismissed. With a remarkable strike rate of 182.76, he will be looking to provide a solid start for Pakistan A.
Best Bowler: Dunith Wellalage
Dunith Wellalage, an experienced player, has been leading Sri Lanka A from the front with six wickets in three matches at an average of 11. The left-arm spinner will be a key player in challenging the Pakistani batters.
Match Prediction:
Based on current form and conditions, the chasing team is predicted to have the upper hand in this clash between Pakistan A and Sri Lanka A.
Stay tuned for what promises to be an exciting and intense semi-final match in the ACC Mens Asia Cup Rising Stars tournament at the West End Park International Cricket Stadium in Doha.
Team Preparations and Strategies
As the semi-final match between Pakistan A and Sri Lanka A approaches, both teams are gearing up for what promises to be a thrilling showdown. Pakistan A, under the leadership of Irfan Khan, will be looking to continue their winning streak and carry forward the momentum from their impressive victories in the group stage. Sri Lanka A, led by Dunith Wellalage, will be aiming to capitalize on their recent resurgence after a shaky start to the tournament.
Key Players to Watch
One player to keep an eye on in this semi-final clash is Mohammad Naeem from Pakistan A. The dynamic batsman has been in fine form throughout the tournament and will be a crucial asset for his team in setting a competitive total or chasing down a target. On the Sri Lankan side, Ramesh Mendis has been a standout performer with both bat and ball, showcasing his all-round capabilities.
Tactical Approaches
With the pitch favoring the chasing teams in recent matches, the toss will play a significant role in determining the course of the game. Both teams will need to adapt their strategies based on whether they bat first or second. Pakistan A may look to set a challenging total and then rely on their strong bowling lineup to defend it, while Sri Lanka A will be focused on containing the Pakistani batsmen and building partnerships during their innings.
Pressure and Expectations
As the semi-final stage of the tournament, the pressure will be at its peak for both Pakistan A and Sri Lanka A. The players will need to stay calm under pressure, make smart decisions on the field, and execute their skills to perfection. Fans from both nations will have high expectations from their teams, adding to the intensity of the match.
Final Thoughts
With a spot in the final of the 2025 Asia Cup Rising Stars tournament on the line, Pakistan A and Sri Lanka A will leave no stone unturned in their quest for victory. The clash between these two talented teams promises to be a spectacle of skill, strategy, and sportsmanship. Cricket enthusiasts around the world will be eagerly awaiting the outcome of this highly anticipated semi-final match in Doha.
Whether you’re rooting for Pakistan A or Sri Lanka A, be sure to catch all the action as these rising stars battle it out on the field. It’s sure to be a match to remember in the annals of cricket history.


