Bangladesh ended Sri Lanka’s Asia Cup campaign hopes with a narrow four-wicket victory in the first Super Four match at Dubai International Stadium yesterday. Chasing 169, Bangladesh secured the win off the penultimate ball, led by half-centuries from Saif Hasan (61) and Towhid Hridoy (50).
Sri Lanka, captained by Charith Asalanka, now faces must-win matches against Pakistan and India to stay in contention for the final. Despite a brilliant 63 not out off 37 balls from Dasun Shanaka, which included six sixes and three fours, Sri Lanka’s total of 168 for 7 proved insufficient.
Openers Pathum Nissanka and Kusal Mendis gave Sri Lanka a strong start with 44 runs in five overs, but middle-order collapses, despite Shanaka’s heroics, allowed Bangladesh to maintain control. Early breakthroughs from Mustafizur Rahman and Hasaranga kept the game tight, but the composure and skill of Saif Hasan and Hridoy ultimately swung the match in Bangladesh’s favour.
The Sri Lankan side wore black armbands in memory of all-rounder Dunith Wellalala’s father, adding an emotional note to the game. Despite Shanaka’s late strikes in the final over, Bangladesh completed the chase, leaving Sri Lanka on the back foot in their Asia Cup campaign.
