The final Super Fours fixture of the Asia Cup 2025 between India and Sri Lanka got underway with plenty of excitement, even though the stakes were minimal. With India and Pakistan already sealing their places in the final scheduled for Sunday, this match was effectively a dead rubber. Still, the game carried intrigue, as fans eagerly awaited strong performances from two of India’s most consistent run-getters in the tournament—Abhishek Sharma and Shubman Gill—who were expected to warm up in style ahead of the big finale.
India’s openers started positively, playing with confidence against the Sri Lankan attack. Gill opened his account with a stylish flick over mid-wicket that drew loud cheers from the crowd, while Abhishek Sharma stamped his authority early by smashing Maheesh Theekshana for a massive six. The intent was clear—the pair looked determined to provide another solid foundation for India.
Just as momentum began to build, however, Sri Lanka struck back in spectacular fashion. On what seemed a routine delivery, Gill mistimed his stroke, lofting the ball into the air. It appeared the chance might evade the fielder, but Theekshana, showing lightning reflexes, flung himself to his right and completed a jaw-dropping one-handed catch.
— Symonds (@Symonds716624) September 26, 2025
The dismissal stunned the crowd and immediately shifted the tone of the contest. Gill, who had only managed four runs, was forced to make the long walk back to the pavilion. The promising opening stand came to a premature end with just 15 runs on the board, leaving India a wicket down earlier than they had hoped.
While the game itself may not have carried much significance in terms of qualification, moments like Theekshana’s brilliance ensured it was far from dull. The early breakthrough gave Sri Lanka a much-needed lift, while for India, the onus fell back on Abhishek Sharma and the middle order to carry the innings forward.