centuries by captain Misbahul Haq and Umar Akmal and a lively spell of bowling from paceman Aizaz Cheema helped Pakistan to a six-wicket win over Sri Lanka in the Asia Cup Thursday. Sri Lanka's defeat was its second in a row while Pakistan is now all but guaranteed a place in the final. Misbah and Akmal shared a stand of 152 for the fourth wicket to lead Pakistan safely to their target in 39.5 overs after Cheema claimed 4-43 as Sri Lanka was bowled out for 188. Sri Lanka created early pressure when paceman Suranga Lakmal took two wickets and leg-spinner Seekkuge Prasanna picked up one to leave Pakistan struggling on 33-3. Misbah and Akmal then steadied the ship and gradually put Pakistan in control as they recorded a second win in the four-nation tournament, plus a bonus point for reaching their target with more than 10 overs to spare. Akmal fell for 77 with his side three runs from victory. He tried to finish the match off with a six but ended up offering a catch to Upul Tharanga at mid-wicket off Farveez Maharoof. Misbah, a cool customer at the other end, hit 72 not out with nine fours and a six. Hammad Azam, playing his first match in the tournament, completed the victory by hitting Prasanna for four through long off. Earlier, Cheema ripped the heart out of Sri Lanka's top-order before off-spinner Saeed Ajmal mopped up the tail with three for 27. India is set to join Pakistan in the final if it beats host Bangladesh Friday.
