Asia Cup Rising Stars 2025: Match Preview – Pakistan A vs Sri Lanka A (November 21, 2025)

Date: November 21, 2025
Time: 14:30 GMT
Venue: West End International Cricket Stadium, Doha, Qatar
Match: Pakistan A vs Sri Lanka A
Format: 50-over
Semifinal 2 (B1 vs A2)

Match Context

As the Asia Cup Rising Stars 2025 reaches its climax, the second semifinal on November 21 promises to be a thrilling encounter between two of Asia’s emerging cricketing powers: Pakistan A and Sri Lanka A. The match will be played at 14:30 GMT (17:30 local time in Doha), and it serves as the second of two semifinals, with the winner advancing to the final on November 23.

This match is a direct clash between the Group B winner and the Group A runner-up, setting up a high-stakes contest between two teams that have impressed in different ways during the tournament.

Team Form and Expectations

Pakistan A

Led by captain Irfan Khan, Pakistan A has been a consistent and disciplined unit throughout the competition. Their performance in the group stage was marked by solid batting lineups and aggressive bowling, particularly in tight situations.

Key highlights from their campaign:

• Defeated UAE comfortably, showcasing their depth in batting and bowling.
• A closely contested match against India A on November 16 saw Pakistan A display resilience under pressure.
• Their bowlers have been particularly effective in the death overs, with Hasan Ali Jr. and Iqraam Rayan emerging as key performers.

Pakistan A’s strength lies in their balanced squad, with a mix of explosive openers and experienced middle-order players, supported by a potent bowling attack.

Sri Lanka A

Sri Lanka A, captained by Nishan Sandaruwan, has been a revelation in the tournament, finishing as Group A runners-up. Their campaign has been defined by innovative tactics, consistent performances, and strong support from their all-rounders.

Key highlights from their campaign:

• A stunning victory over the defending champions, Afghanistan A, on November 15.
• A closely fought match against Bangladesh A on November 19, where they displayed composure under pressure.
• Charith Asalanka Jr. and Dinushka Fernando have been standout performers, combining aggression with control.

Sri Lanka A’s strength lies in their aggressive batting approach and versatile bowling options, which will challenge Pakistan A’s top order.

Head-to-Head and Tactical Insights

The two teams have not met in the Asia Cup Rising Stars, but their previous encounters in A-level matches suggest a competitive rivalry. Both sides are likely to play their best XI, with the pitch and weather in Doha expected to be in good condition for a high-scoring game.

Pakistan A will look to capitalize on the death overs, using their experienced tail-enders to chase down targets or defend totals. Sri Lanka A, on the other hand, will aim to dominate the middle overs and put pressure on Pakistan’s bowlers with a balanced batting lineup.

The match will hinge on:

• Toss decision: The chasing side is expected to have the advantage, given the nature of the wicket.
• Key players: Irfan Khan (Pakistan A) and Charith Asalanka Jr. (Sri Lanka A) will be under the spotlight.
• Bowling performance: Both teams will need their bowlers to perform under pressure, especially in tight spells.

Player Watch

• Irfan Khan (Pakistan A) – A composed captain with a knack for anchoring the innings.
• Hasan Ali Jr. (Pakistan A) – Provides late-order oomph and is a reliable death-overs bowler.
• Charith Asalanka Jr. (Sri Lanka A) – A match-winner with a flair for scoring quickly.
• Dinushka Fernando (Sri Lanka A) – Offers valuable all-round contributions with bat and ball.

Prediction

This match promises to be a high-octane clash between two well-balanced teams. While Pakistan A has been more consistent in their performances, Sri Lanka A’s flair and innovation could give them the edge.

Prediction:
Sri Lanka A to win by a narrow margin (6-4).

Broadcast and Live Streaming

Fans across the globe can catch the action live:

• USA & Canada: Sling TV, Willow TV
• Middle East & North Africa: STARZPLAY via CricLife MAX
• India: Sony Sports Network (broadcast) and Sony Liv (streaming)
• Pakistan: PTV Sports and Tamasha app
• UAE: CricLife MAX via eLife TV, Switch TV

Final Thoughts

The Pakistan A vs Sri Lanka A semifinal will be a must-watch for cricket fans, as both teams vie for a place in the Asia Cup Rising Stars 2025 Final. With the tournament nearing its end, this match will test not just skill, but also mental strength and tactical acumen.

Who will make it to the final? The answer lies in Doha on November 21, 2025.

Stay tuned for live updates and post-match analysis.
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