It would be fair to say that Sri Lanka’s batter Pathum Nissanka has emerged as one of the best all-format opener in the world. His appetite for runs, and prowess to hit big shots were at ample display during his maiden T20I ton, against India on Friday, in the Asia Cup Super 4 clash. With the Sri Lankan side chasing a mammoth 203, Nissanka brought out his best to not only stun India, but also achieve his milestone in only 52 deliveries.
Pathum Nissanka Rises to the Occasion
The pocket-sized Nissanka was severe against all the bowlers and went on to hit seven fours and six sixes in his innings. Meanwhile, this also happens to be the first ton of the Asia Cup 2025. But unfortunately for Sri Lanka, it came at a time, where the score and result does not matter at all. After losing two Super 4 matches on the trot, the Islanders were ousted from the race of the finals.
2nd Fastest T20I Ton for Sri Lanka
What was even more remarkable is the fact, that this was the second-fastest ton hit by a Lankan in T20Is. The record is held by Kusal Perera vs New Zealand in 2025. The third-best is in the name of T Dilshan — 55 deliveries vs Australia in 2011. On the other hand, it was a day to forget for the Indian bowlers.
In the absence of Jasprit Bumrah, all the bowlers, except for Kuldeep Yadav and Varun Chakravarthy were mighty expensive. Arshdeep Singh ended with poor figures of 1/46 in his four overs. Harshit Rana gave away 54 runs in his 4 overs, only for one wicket.
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