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The stage is set for a riveting virtual semi-final between Sri Lanka and Pakistan in the Asia Cup 2023 on Thursday, 14 September. Both teams faced defeats against India in the Super Fours stage, albeit differently. India comprehensively outmatched Pakistan in a rain-affected two-day game, while Sri Lanka posed a substantial challenge for India before succumbing with the bat against the spin prowess of Kuldeep Yadav.
Entering the tournament with impressive victories, both Pakistan and Sri Lanka faced the might of India and are now on the brink of a defining match for a place in the final.
Hence, all eyes will be on both these teams as they enter what might potentially be a semi-final clash for a place in the ultimate match of the Asia Cup 2023.
The unpredictable nature of the weather played its part in both teams' fixtures against India.
Pakistan's game witnessed prolonged interruptions, while Sri Lanka's match experienced a brief delay. The upcoming clash also forecasts significant rainfall, with predictions of showers both in the morning and afternoon. Though the evening appears clearer, preparations for the match may still face hurdles. The day is expected to remain mostly overcast, with cloud cover throughout.
In the event of a washout, due to the absence of reserve days, Sri Lanka, with a superior net run rate, would progress to the finals scheduled for September 17. This would mark a consecutive final for Dasun Shanaka's team. In 2022, they clinched the title against Pakistan in the T20I version of the tournament.
Meanwhile, Pakistan, prepping for the consequential semi-final, has unveiled their playing XI with significant changes. Injury has benched Naseem Shah, Haris Rauf and Salman Agha. Additionally, Fakhar Zaman and Faheem Ashraf have been left out of the lineup as the team enters the must-win clash with five significant changes. They will also had an ODI debut to Zaman Khan.
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