All star of the match

Malinga stars in Sri Lanka win against Pakistan

Lasith Malinga's five-wicket haul helped Sri Lanka claim an exciting 12-run victory against Pakistan in the opening match of the Asia Cup in Fatullah, Bangladesh, on Tuesday.

Lasith Malinga celebrates after dismissing Bilawal Bhatti  •  AFP

Lasith Malinga celebrates after dismissing Bilawal Bhatti  •  AFP

Lasith Malinga's five-wicket haul helped Sri Lanka claim an exciting 12-run victory against Pakistan in the opening match of the Asia Cup in Fatullah, Bangladesh, on Tuesday.
Malinga's fiery spell came after Sri Lanka's opening batsman Lahiru Thirimanne scored an impressive century that helped them post a target of 297.
Sri Lanka's bowlers found it difficult to contain Pakistan's batsmen early in their innings as Sharjeel Khan and Ahmed Shehzad smashed five boundaries in the first six overs.
Pakistan had earlier seemed in control, with 55 needed off 46 balls and six wickets in hand. Misbah and Akmal were going strong with their 121-run partnership. But Malinga was vital to quelling that charge.
He struck twice in four balls in the 45th over, to dismiss Masbah and Shahid Afridi, and swing the match strongly in Sri Lanka's favour.
Malinga then dismissed Umar Gul, Bilawal Bhatti and Saeed Ajmal to limit Pakistan to just 284.
"At the moment, not much good rhythm. Really happy to take the five wickets," Malinga said. "Last two games and the first half of the game, didn't bowl too well. But I used my variations and at the end we won the game. Not much dew today and I concentrated on my variations, slower balls, bouncers and at the end of the day, very happy we won the game"
Sri Lanka's captain, Angelo Mathews, said that he credits Malinga with the win.
"Malinga is the best bowler for us and has been in the past few years. Whenever we are under pressure he is our go to man and he did it again. [Did he underbowl?] Well, maybe I'll try to bowl more"