Dasun Shanaka Creates Unwanted Record with Most Ducks in T20I Cricket

In the Asia Cup 2025 Super Four clash between Pakistan and Sri Lanka, former Sri Lankan captain and all-rounder Dasun Shanaka etched his name in the record books — but for a reason no cricketer would want. Shanaka now holds the unwanted record of being dismissed for a duck (zero runs) the most times in T20 International cricket.

Sri Lanka’s Struggles Against Pakistan

The high-stakes encounter at the Super Four stage proved to be a nightmare for Sri Lanka right from the beginning. Facing a disciplined Pakistani bowling attack, the Sri Lankan top order collapsed under pressure. By the time the score reached just 58 runs, half of the batting lineup was already back in the pavilion, leaving the team in serious trouble.

Amidst the chaos, Dasun Shanaka walked to the crease hoping to provide some resistance. However, his stay was short-lived as he failed to score and was dismissed for zero. This dismissal didn’t just hurt Sri Lanka’s innings — it also brought a personal low point for Shanaka.

Shanaka’s Unwanted Record

With this duck, Dasun Shanaka became the first player in T20I history to be dismissed for zero runs on 14 different occasions. This places him ahead of all other players in the world who have struggled with early dismissals in the shortest format of the game.

The list now stands as follows:

• Dasun Shanaka (Sri Lanka): 14 ducks
• Martin Akayezu (Rwanda): 13 ducks
• Soumya Sarkar (Bangladesh): 13 ducks
• Paul Stirling (Ireland): 13 ducks

While Shanaka has enjoyed many memorable performances for Sri Lanka as an all-rounder and former captain, this record is one that highlights the unpredictability and challenges of T20 cricket.

Pakistan Clinch Crucial Victory

Despite Sri Lanka’s fightback in the middle overs, Pakistan remained dominant throughout the contest. Chasing a modest target of 134 runs, Pakistan reached the score in just 18 overs, losing 5 wickets in the process. With this victory, Pakistan secured two vital points in the Super Four stage, strengthening their chances of qualifying for the final.

The Bigger Picture

For Sri Lanka, the loss and Shanaka’s dismissal raise further questions about their batting depth and consistency against stronger opponents. On the other hand, Pakistan’s clinical performance reflects their growing confidence in the tournament.

As the Asia Cup 2025 moves closer to its climax, fans are left talking not only about Pakistan’s steady march towards the final but also about Shanaka’s unwanted record — a reminder of how even seasoned players can find themselves on the wrong side of cricketing history.

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