In a riveting game at Pallekele International Cricket Stadium in Kandy, Sri Lanka seized victory against Bangladesh, marking a powerful commencement to their Asia Cup 2023 journey.
Facing a challenging target of 165 runs, Sri Lanka initially found themselves in a precarious position at 43-3. The dynamic duo of Charith Asalanka and Sadeera Samarawickrama turned the tide. The two stitched together a game-changing partnership of 78 runs in 119 balls, steering the Islanders toward a confident win. While Samarawickrama delivered a solid 54 runs from 77 balls, graced by six boundaries, Asalanka stood steadfast, securing an undefeated 62 from 92 balls, complemented by five fours and a memorable six.
Bangladeshi skipper Shakib Al Hasan showcased commendable bowling, recording figures of 2-29 in his 10-over spell.
Bangladesh’s Innings Breakdown
Earlier in the game, after winning the coin toss, Bangladesh had elected to set the score. However, their innings concluded at 164 in 42.4 overs. Najmul Hossain Shanto was the beacon for the side, registering an impressive 89 runs in 122 balls. But the team struggled for stability, with frequent losses at the crease – only four batsmen managed to cross into double digits.
Sri Lankan bowler Matheesha Pathirana emerged as the bowling star, boasting figures of 4-32 in his 7.4-over spell.
The Asia Cup has brought a slew of injuries for Sri Lanka. Notable absences from their squad include all-rounder Wanindu Hasaranga and pacemen Dushmantha Chameera, Lahiru Madushanka, and Lahiru Kumara.
Bangladesh, too, faced setbacks, with wicketkeeper-batsman Liton Das being ruled out of the series. Nonetheless, the team stands strong under the seasoned leadership of Shakib Al Hasan, with stalwarts like Mushfiqur Rahim, Mustafizur Rahman, and Mehedi Hassan in the ranks.
On the other hand, Dasun Shanaka leads the Sri Lankan side, enriched by seasoned players like Kusal Mendis, Mahesh Theekshana, and Dhanajaya de Silva.
Bangladesh: Mohammed Naim, Tanzid Tamim, Najmul Hossain Shanto, Towhid Hridoy, Shakib Al Hasan (capt.), Mushfiqur Rahim (wk), Mehedi Hasan, Mahedi Hasan, Taskin Ahmed, Shoriful Islam, Mustafizur Rahman
Sri Lanka: Pathum Nissanka, Dimuth Karunaratne, Kusal Mendis (wk), Sadeera Samarawickrama, Charith Asalanka, Dhananjaya de Silva, Dasun Shanaka (capt.), Dunith Wellalage, Maheesh Theekshana, Kasun Rajitha, Matheesha Pathirana.
