In a thrilling encounter during the Asia Cup 2023 Super-4 stage, the defending champions, Sri Lanka, kicked off their campaign in style by defeating Bangladesh by a margin of 21 runs. Pathirana, Theekshana, and Captain Shanaka were the standout performers, each taking three crucial wickets as Bangladesh were bundled out for a total of 236.
In a captivating showdown during the Asia Cup 2023 Super 4 stage, Sri Lanka initiated their campaign with an impressive 21-run victory over Bangladesh in Colombo on Saturday. With a target of 257 runs to chase, Sri Lanka’s Captain Dasun Shanaka, Matheesha Pathirana, and Maheesh Theekshana shone with the ball, each claiming three crucial wickets. This collective effort led to Bangladesh being bowled out for 236 in 48.1 overs.
Towhid Hridoy emerged as the standout performer with the bat for Bangladesh, scoring a resilient 82 off 97 balls. However, he received limited support from his teammates. Despite a positive start by the openers, Shanaka’s double breakthrough triggered a middle-over collapse. Subsequently, Hridoy, along with Mushfiqur Rahim, stabilized the innings by contributing 72 runs for the fifth wicket.
Prior to the intense chase, Sadeera Samarawickrama showcased a brilliant effort with the bat, amassing 93 runs off 72 deliveries, as Sri Lanka posted a competitive total of 257/9 in their allotted 50 overs. Samarawickrama’s innings played a pivotal role in Sri Lanka’s recovery after they found themselves struggling at 164/5.
Sri Lanka appeared to be in a commanding position, but Shoriful Islam’s double scalp in consecutive overs brought Bangladesh back into contention, disrupting the 50-plus partnership between Pathum Nissanka and Kusal Mendis. Mendis was dismissed after completing his half-century, and Nissanka contributed 40 runs off 60 deliveries.
Unfortunately for Bangladesh, this marked their second consecutive defeat in the Super 4 stage of the Asia Cup 2023.
A stellar performance by substitute fielder Dushan Hemantha unfolded as Nasum Ahmed took a powerful swing at a pitched-up delivery by Theekshana. Hemantha displayed extraordinary skill, snatching a breathtaking catch. His quick thinking was evident as he released the ball just before tumbling over the boundary ropes. However, the third umpire ruled it as a six. Upon reviewing the TV replay, it became clear that Hemantha’s foot had grazed the ropes before his exceptional effort.
In the following over, Pathirana put the finishing touches on the contest by cleaning up Nasum Ahmed, who managed to score 15 runs off as many balls. With this wicket, Bangladesh’s innings came to a close at 236 runs in 48.1 overs. Sri Lanka emerged victorious with a 21-run margin, sealing the match in their favor.