Media365
The group stage of the Asia Cup 2025 has moved into a tense phase with only a few games left to decide the Super 4 line-up. In Group B, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka and Afghanistan are battling for the two qualification spots, while Hong Kong are already out after three defeats. Bangladesh boosted their chances with a crucial win over Afghanistan in Abu Dhabi, which took them level on points with Sri Lanka. Sri Lanka currently sit at the top with four points from two matches. Bangladesh also have four points but have played all their games. Afghanistan, with two points, still have one match left against Sri Lanka. That clash has now become a virtual knockout. If Sri Lanka win, they will advance alongside Bangladesh. But if Afghanistan manage to beat the defending champions, all three teams will finish on four points. In that case, net run rate will decide the two sides that go through. This is where Bangladesh are at risk. Their net run rate is -0.270, compared to Afghanistan’s +2.150 and Sri Lanka’s +1.546. If Afghanistan win, Bangladesh are almost certain to be knocked out despite having four points. In Group A, India have already secured their place in the Super 4 with two convincing wins. They brushed aside UAE inside 18 overs before easing past Pakistan by seven wickets. Oman have been eliminated after back-to-back defeats. This leaves the Pakistan vs UAE match on September 17 as a straight shootout for the second spot. A win for Pakistan will take them through with India. If UAE pull off an upset, they will qualify instead. A tie or no result would bring net run rate into play, with Pakistan currently ahead of UAE.
