ABU DHABI: Sri Lanka stamped their authority in Group B of the Asia Cup 2025 with a commanding six-wicket win over Bangladesh at the Zayed Cricket Stadium on Saturday, chasing down a modest 140-run target with ease and efficiency.
The victory was set up by a clinical bowling performance, which restricted Bangladesh to just 139/5 on a slow Abu Dhabi track. But it was the Sri Lankan top order that sealed the deal, led by Pathum Nissanka’s electrifying 50 off 34 balls, who once again proved why he is central to their T20I fortunes.
Kamil Mishara (Sri Lanka) was named Player of the Match for his unbeaten 46 off 32 balls.
Nissanka got Sri Lanka off to a flyer, cracking six boundaries and a six before falling to Mahedi Hasan. By then, the damage was done. At the other end, young Kamil Mishara ensured there were no hiccups in the chase, making the most of a dropped chance early in his innings to hammer 46 off 32 balls, including four boundaries and two sixes.
Despite losing quick wickets in the middle, Kusal Mendis (3), Kusal Perera (9), and captain Dasun Shanaka (1), Sri Lanka never looked in trouble. Mishara’s assured knock, paired with Charith Asalanka’s brisk 10 off 4 balls*, saw them reach the target in just 14.4 overs, finishing at 140/4 with a run rate of 9.54.
The Bangladesh bowlers had their moments, especially Mahedi Hasan, who picked up two wickets, including the prized scalps of Nissanka and Perera. But the lack of early runs and too many extras—16 wides and 21 extras overall, cost them dearly.
Earlier in the day, Bangladesh’s innings never really got going after a disastrous start that saw them slump to 11/3. A fighting stand between Jaker Ali (41)* and Shamim Hossain (42)* brought some respectability to the score, but it was never going to be enough against a side with Sri Lanka’s firepower.
With this win, Sri Lanka not only open their campaign with a statement but also throw Group B wide open in the race for the Super Four.
Match Summary
Bangladesh: 139/5 in 20 overs (Shamim 42*, Jaker 41*; Hasaranga 2-18)
Sri Lanka: 140/4 in 14.4 overs (Nissanka 50, Mishara 46*; Mahedi Hasan 2-24)
