Bangladesh Beat Sri Lanka by 4 Wickets in Asia Cup Thriller

Bangladesh edged past Sri Lanka by 4 wickets in a thrilling Asia Cup Super Four clash, powered by Saif Hassan, Hridoy, and Mustafizur’s brilliance.

Bangladesh kicked off their Super Four campaign in the 17th edition of the Asia Cup with a dramatic 4-wicket victory over Sri Lanka on Saturday night in Dubai. Skipper Liton Das won the toss and opted to bowl first, a decision that paid off as the bowlers restricted Sri Lanka to 168 runs.

Shanaka’s Storming Knock Lifts Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka posted a competitive total of 168/7, thanks to Dasun Shanaka’s power-packed innings. The all-rounder smashed 64 runs off 37 balls, remaining unbeaten with 3 fours and 6 towering sixes. Despite a solid opening partnership between Pathum Nissanka and Kusal Mendis, Sri Lanka stumbled in the middle overs before Shanaka rescued the innings.

Bangladesh Bowlers Shine

Among the bowlers, Mustafizur Rahman stood out with brilliant figures of 3 wickets for just 20 runs. Mehidy Hasan chipped in with 2 wickets, while Taskin Ahmed grabbed 1. Although Shoriful Islam remained wicketless, he conceded 49 runs in his spell. Their combined efforts ensured Sri Lanka couldn’t cross the 170 mark.

Saif and Hridoy Lead the Charge

Chasing 169, Bangladesh got off to a flying start thanks to opener Saif Hassan, who hammered 61 off 45 balls. After a couple of quick wickets, Towhid Hridoy kept the momentum alive with a quickfire 58 off 37 deliveries, guiding Bangladesh closer to victory.

A Heart-Stopping Finish

The final over turned the match into a nail-biter. With the scores tied, Jaker Ali fell attempting a big shot, followed by Mehidy Hasan’s dismissal. Memories of Bangladesh’s heartbreak in Bengaluru nine years ago resurfaced for fans. However, Nasum Ahmed held his nerve, taking the crucial single to seal a thrilling 4-wicket win with just one ball to spare.

A Strong Start in the Super Four

Bangladesh entered the Super Four as group runners-up with two wins from three matches. This victory now gives them the perfect momentum heading further into the tournament.

Match Summary:

• Sri Lanka: 168/7 in 20 overs (Shanaka 64*, Mendis 34; Mustafizur 3/20, Mehidy 2/25)
• Bangladesh: 169/6 in 19.5 overs (Saif 61, Hridoy 58; Theekshana 2/32)