SL vs PAK: Wanindu Hasaranga Will Be Huge Threat For Pakistan In Final - Aakash Chopra

Former India cricketer Aakash Chopra picked Sri Lankan leg-spinner Wanindu Hasaranga as a “huge threat” for Pakistan in the Asia Cup final on Sunday, September 11.

Pakistan were bowled out for 121 after being asked to bat first in Dubai in the Super 4 match against Sri Lanka. Dasun Shanaka’s team chased down the below-par target with five wickets and three overs to spare and remain unbeaten in the Super 4 phase.

Pakistan’s middle order collapsed like ninepins as Wanindu Hasaranga (3/21) led the bowling attack. They were 82/4 at one point, lost three wickets for 28 runs, and were eventually bowled out in 19.1 overs.

Wanindu Hasaranga Will Be a Huge Threat For Pakistan – Aakash Chopra

“Wanindu Hasaranga will be a huge threat for Pakistan because, in front of leg spin and googly, this Pakistan lineup collapses whether it is Wanandu Hasaranga or Rashid Khan (of Afghanistan),” Aakash Chopra said on Star Sports while previewing the final.

Chopra feels that Pakistan’s Pacers could pose a threat to the Sri Lankan batsmen as the new pitch would help them. He added that Shadab Khan could impress with his all-round performance.

“We have seen that play out. So that will be a concern. From Sri Lanka’s point of view, I think Pakistan pacers are quick, they have got the bounce. This fresh pitch will offer them some assistance. So that will be an issue for Sri Lanka as their batting is a bit volatile.”

“If Pakistan team is defending then I will pick Shadab Khan. He might score some runs with the bat upfront and after that with leg spin he can take wickets. That’s what I actually feel,” Chopra said.

Pakistan is looking to end a decade-long Asia Cup drought with their third title in the Asia Cup Competition and they won their last trophy in 2012. Sri Lanka is aiming to repeat their 2014 heroics when they defeated Pakistan in the 50-over format. In the last two editions, Pakistan and Sri Lanka failed to reach the final.

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