The Asia Cup 2025 reaches its final Super Four encounter as India lock horns with Sri Lanka at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium on Friday, September 26. Although the clash is technically a dead rubber—India have already booked their ticket to the final and Sri Lanka are out after consecutive defeats—the game still carries importance for both sides.
For Suryakumar Yadav’s India, this contest is about testing bench strength and fine-tuning combinations before the title showdown. For Charith Asalanka’s Sri Lanka, it represents one last chance to bow out on a positive note after a disappointing Super Four stage. Fans, punters, and analysts alike will keep a close watch on this battle as it offers valuable insights into team form, individual performers, and betting opportunities.
India vs Sri Lanka Form Guide
India’s form:
India arrive at this clash riding high on confidence. They registered emphatic wins over Pakistan and Bangladesh in the Super Fours, ensuring qualification for the final with a game to spare. Young opener Abhishek Sharma has been the standout performer with his explosive batting, while bowlers like Kuldeep Yadav and Jasprit Bumrah have been equally impressive.
Sri Lanka’s form:
The island nation entered the Super Fours unbeaten in the group stages but faltered when it mattered most. Narrow defeats to Pakistan and Bangladesh crushed their qualification hopes. While Pathum Nissanka and Wanindu Hasaranga showed sparks of brilliance, inconsistency in the middle order and lack of penetration with the ball hurt them.
Prediction snapshot:
- If India bat first: India 180–185, Sri Lanka 150–155
- Likely result: India to win by 20–25 runs (batting first) or by 7–8 wickets (chasing).
- Head-to-Head: India vs Sri Lanka in T20Is
The two Asian giants have played 32 T20 internationals, with India firmly dominating the rivalry.
- Total matches: 32
- India wins: 21
- Sri Lanka wins: 9
- No result/Tied: 2
The last T20I series between the sides was held in July 2024 at Pallekele, where India completed a 3-0 whitewash. This record, coupled with India’s current form, explains why bookmakers have placed them as strong favourites heading into this clash.
Predicted Playing XIs and Team News
India’s Team News
India, having secured a final berth, have the luxury of experimenting with their squad. Key talking points include:
- Sanju Samson’s form: The middle-order batter has been inconsistent, and Jitesh Sharma could be tested as an alternative.
- Fielding concerns: India have dropped 10 catches so far, including five in one game against Bangladesh, which the management will want to fix.
- Rotation policy: Expect some senior players to be rested while the bench gets valuable match time.
Predicted XI (India):
Abhishek Sharma, Shubman Gill, Suryakumar Yadav (c), Tilak Varma, Sanju Samson (wk), Shivam Dube, Hardik Pandya, Axar Patel, Kuldeep Yadav, Jasprit Bumrah, Varun Chakravarthy.
Sri Lanka’s Team News
With elimination confirmed, Sri Lanka aim to salvage pride. Their key challenges are inconsistent batting and over-reliance on individual stars.
- Pathum Nissanka has been a rare bright spot at the top.
- Hasaranga’s all-round ability continues to be their main weapon.
Bowling depth remains thin beyond their leading strike bowlers.
Predicted XI (Sri Lanka):
Pathum Nissanka, Kusal Mendis (wk), Kusal Perera, Charith Asalanka (c), Dasun Shanaka, Kamindu Mendis, Chamika Karunaratne, Wanindu Hasaranga, Maheesh Theekshana, Dushmantha Chameera, Nuwan Thushara.
Key Players to Watch
India
Abhishek Sharma (Batter): Tournament’s highest run-scorer with 248 runs in five games at a strike rate above 200. His fearless starts have given India commanding positions.
Kuldeep Yadav (Bowler): Currently the leading wicket-taker with 12 dismissals at an average of 8.08. His ability to dismantle batting lineups in the middle overs has been India’s trump card.
Sri Lanka
- Pathum Nissanka (Batter): Scored 154 runs in five games, averaging over 30. His role at the top is critical in giving Sri Lanka competitive totals.
- Wanindu Hasaranga (Bowler): Picked up 7 wickets in five matches with superb economy. His variations remain Sri Lanka’s best chance to disrupt India’s batting.
Betting Odds and Predictions
Bookmakers heavily back India, reflecting both form and historical dominance.
- India: 1.17
- Sri Lanka: 5.00
(Odds correct at the time of publishing)
Betting Tips
- Match Winner: India are overwhelming favourites to secure victory.
- Top Batter (India): Abhishek Sharma—given his current form and fearless stroke play.
- Top Bowler (India): Kuldeep Yadav—his wicket-taking ability gives him an edge.
- Total Runs (India): Back India to score 175+ if batting first, considering their explosive batting depth.
- First Dismissal Method: Caught remains the most probable first wicket, consistent with recent T20I trends.
Live Scorecard and Updates
Fans can follow ball-by-ball updates through live scorecards available on Parimatch and other betting platforms. Real-time updates allow viewers to track runs, wickets, and odds as the action unfolds.
Where to Watch India vs Sri Lanka
- Venue: Dubai International Cricket Stadium
- Date & Time (IST): Friday, September 26, 8:00 p.m.
- Live Telecast: Sony Sports Network
- Streaming: Sony LIV app & website
Frequently Asked Questions:
When is the India vs. Sri Lanka Super Four match of the Asia Cup 2025?
The match takes place on Friday, September 26, 2025, at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, starting at 8:00 p.m. IST.
What is at stake in the India vs. Sri Lanka Super Four clash?
India have already sealed their spot in the final, while Sri Lanka are out of contention. The match serves as preparation for India and a chance for Sri Lanka to finish on a positive note.
Who are the key players to watch in India vs. Sri Lanka?
For India, Abhishek Sharma and Kuldeep Yadav are in red-hot form. For Sri Lanka, Pathum Nissanka and Wanindu Hasaranga will be crucial.
What are the betting odds for India vs. Sri Lanka?
India enter as strong favourites at odds of 1.17, while Sri Lanka are priced at 5.00 after back-to-back defeats.
Where can fans watch the India vs. Sri Lanka Asia Cup match live?
The match will be broadcast live on Sony Sports Network, with streaming available on the Sony LIV app and website.
How has the head-to-head record been between India and Sri Lanka in T20Is?
India have dominated, winning 21 of the 32 matches played, while Sri Lanka have managed just 9 victories.
What is the predicted scoreline for India vs. Sri Lanka in the Super Four?
If India bat first, they are expected to post 180–185 runs, while Sri Lanka could reach around 150–155.
Conclusion
The India vs. Sri Lanka Super Four clash may be a dead rubber in terms of qualification, but it is far from meaningless. India will use the opportunity to sharpen their strategies, address fielding lapses, and give fringe players a chance ahead of the grand finale. Sri Lanka, on the other hand, will fight for pride and aim to restore some confidence after back-to-back defeats. With India’s dominant form and Sri Lanka’s unpredictable flair, fans can expect a thrilling contest under the Dubai lights. While the odds heavily favour India, the beauty of T20 cricket lies in its uncertainty—making this match one to watch closely.