Asia Cup: Sri Lanka beat Pakistan in final to claim sixth title

Bhanuka Rajapaksa starred in Sri Lanka's Asia Cup win with 71 not out from 45 balls after they were 58-5

Sri Lanka beat Pakistan by 23 runs in the Asia Cup final to secure an unexpected sixth title in Dubai.

Sri Lanka scored 170-6 off their 20 overs, set up by Bhanuka Rajapaksa's unbeaten 71 from 45 balls.

Mohammad Rizwan scored 55 in Pakistan's reply but Pramod Madushan took 4-34 to end their hopes.

The win marks a big turnaround for Sri Lanka, coached by former England coach Chris Silverwood, after they lost their opening game to Afghanistan.

Victory looked unlikely when Sri Lanka slipped to 58-5, before Rajapaksa and Wanindu Hasaranga came together.

They added 58 for the sixth wicket as Hasaranga scored 36 from 21 balls to steer them to a challenging total.

Fast bowler Haris Rauf led Pakistan's bowling attack with 3-29.

Sri Lanka's bowlers took wickets regularly throughout Pakistan's chase to restrict their scoring, despite Rizwan's efforts at the top of the order.

Seamer Madushan took three top-order wickets quickly, while leg-spinner Hasaranga capped a fine all-round performance with figures of 3-27.

"There was always confidence that the team had talent, we just needed a method," said Silverwood.

"We worked hard and the results are showing. Our young seam attack was superb, but it was a team effort."

Only India have won more Asia Cup titles than Sri Lanka, with seven victories.

Pre-tournament favourites India failed to reach the final following defeats by Sri Lanka and Pakistan in the Super Four stage.