Abrar-Hasaranga mimicry grabs spotlight in Pakistan-Sri Lanka clash

In a gripping Super 4 encounter at the Asia Cup 2025, the spotlight wasn't just on the cricket -- it was the playful, theatrical exchanges between spinners Abrar Ahmed and Wanindu Hasaranga that stole the show at the Sheikh Zayed Stadium in Abu Dhabi on Tuesday.

The drama began when Abrar outfoxed Hasaranga with a well-disguised googly, drawing the Sri Lankan all-rounder into a misjudged slog-sweep. As Hasaranga trudged off, Abrar cheekily mimicked his signature celebration -- fingers crossed on both hands -- much to the delight of a roaring Abu Dhabi crowd.

But Hasaranga wasn't going to take it lying down. With ball in hand, he crafted a moment of magic to dismiss Saim Ayub. A beautifully flighted googly that dipped sharply deceived Ayub, who played for the leg-break, only to see his off-stump go flying. Hasaranga's response? A direct copy of Abrar's celebration -- complete with crossed arms and a subtle head shake -- a move that instantly lit up social media and the stands.

The mimicry may have added spice to the contest, but the mutual respect between the two spin wizards was evident as they shared a hug and exchanged words after Pakistan sealed a tense chase of 133 in 18 overs, all but knocking Sri Lanka out.

Hasaranga had earlier set the tone with the crucial wicket of Fakhar Zaman, and later removed Ayub, continuing to pose questions to the Pakistani batters throughout his spell. Even Mohammad Haris joined the fun from the dugout, jokingly teasing Abrar during the tense run chase.

On the other end, Abrar once again proved his value as Pakistan's mystery weapon, returning miserly figures of 4-0-8-1. His Asia Cup tally now stands at five wickets with an impressive economy rate of 4.62, consistently choking opposition batters and helping Pakistan stay on top in crunch moments.

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In a low-scoring thriller where every run and wicket counted, it was the light-hearted battle between Abrar and Hasaranga -- full of banter, brilliance, and mutual respect -- that provided the most memorable subplot of the night.