Bangladesh face a stern challenge on Friday when they meet six-time champions Sri Lanka in a decisive Group B fixture of the Asia Cup in Abu Dhabi. With Afghanistan already leading in terms of net run rate, the battle could go a long way in determining which teams will be in the Super Four.
Bangladesh will start their game with a seven-wicket triumph over Hong Kong, led by skipper Litton Das’s 59 runs. Yet the victory raised concerns as both pacer Taskin Ahmed and leg-spinner Rishad Hossain took wickets but proved expensive. There is a need for greater control against a stronger Sri Lankan batting order.
Sri Lanka boosted by the return of Hasaranga
Sri Lanka, spearheaded by Charith Asalanka, will bring a balanced side into the match. The top order has experienced players like Pathum Nissanka, Kusal Perera, and Kusal Mendis. The middle order has finishing prowess through Asalanka himself, along with Kamindu Mendis and Dasun Shanaka.
The recall of Janith Liyanage, returning to T20Is after three years, will add another seam-bowling option. Liyanage is in form as he hit a match-winning 70 runs in Zimbabwe. The major news is the comeback of spinner Wanindu Hasaranga, who has recovered from injury. On slow UAE pitches, he will combine with Maheesh Theekshana and Dunith Wellalage to pose a major challenge, backed by pacer Matheesha Pathirana.
With Afghanistan’s net run rate at 4.700 in comparison to Bangladesh’s 1.001, both sides are under pressure to win the match. Bangladesh’s batting will again bank on Litton and Tawhid Hridoy.
Sri Lanka, with six titles in their account, will start as favourites, but Bangladesh will aim for their maiden Asia Cup trophy.
Predicted XIs:
Bangladesh: Mohammad Parvez Hossain, Liton Das (C), Tanzid Hasan, Towhid Hridoy, Jaker Ali, Mahedi Hasan, Shamin Hossain, Rishad Hossain, Mahedi Hasan, Taskin Ahmed, Mustafizur Rahman, and Tanzim Hasan Sakib.
Sri Lanka: Charith Asalanka (C), Kusal Mendis (WK), Pathum Nissanka, K Perera, Kamil Mishara, Dasun Shanaka, Maheesh Theekshana, Dushmantha Chameera, Wanindu Hasaranga, and Matheesha Pathirana.