SL vs BAN, Asia Cup: Hassan, Hridoy power Bangladesh to 4-wicket win over Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka vs Bangladesh Preview

Sri Lanka enter the Super 4 opener as slight favourites, boasting an unbeaten run in the group stage with convincing wins over Bangladesh, Afghanistan, and others. Led by Charith Asalanka, their batting has been anchored by Pathum Nissanka’s explosive 124 runs at a strike rate of 149.39. Wanindu Hasaranga’s spin (3 wickets at 5.83 economy) and Nuwan Thushara’s pace have dismantled the opposition. Their group-stage triumph over Bangladesh by chasing down the target comfortably highlighted their depth, especially in supporting openers like Kusal Mendis, who smashed an unbeaten 74 against Afghanistan.

Bangladesh, captained by Litton Das, recovered from an opening loss to Sri Lanka with victories against Hong Kong and Afghanistan, thanks to Litton’s 90 runs and the pace duo of Taskin Ahmed and Mustafizur Rahman (4 wickets each). However, their bowling balance remains a concern, particularly the fifth-bowler option, which leaked runs earlier. Mustafizur, nearing 150 T20I wickets, could be pivotal in death overs. The Dubai pitch, slow and spin-friendly, favours chases, with spinners likely dominating middle overs.

SL vs BAN Head-to-Head in T20Is

Sri Lanka have faced Bangladesh in 21 T20Is. The island nation holds the upper hand with 13 wins, while Bangladesh have secured 8 victories. However, in their last five encounters, it has been difficult to separate the two. Bangladesh have won 3, and Sri Lanka 2. Notably, their most recent clash in the Asia Cup 2025 group stage saw Sri Lanka emerge victorious.

Dubai Stadium Pitch Report

The Dubai International Cricket Stadium pitch is typically dry and slow, offering grip and turn for spinners, making it challenging for aggressive strokeplay. In T20Is, it has hosted 114-115 matches, with teams chasing winning 60-61 times compared to 53-54 for batting first, indicating a slight edge for the second innings due to dew under lights.

The average first-innings score is around 139, dropping to 122 in the second innings. Batters need to capitalise on the powerplay, as the middle overs favour slower bowlers. Pacers get early movement, but spin dominates later. The highest successful chase: 184 by Sri Lanka vs Bangladesh in 2022 Asia Cup. Expect low-to-medium scoring (140-160 ideal), with dew aiding chases. Weather: Hot and clear, no rain expected.

SL vs BAN Playing 11

• Sri Lanka XI: Pathum Nissanka, Kusal Mendis(w), Kamil Mishara, Kusal Perera, Charith Asalanka(c), Dasun Shanaka, Kamindu Mendis, Wanindu Hasaranga, Dunith Wellalage, Dushmantha Chameera, Nuwan Thushara
• Bangladesh XI: Saif Hassan, Tanzid Hasan Tamim, Litton Das(w/c), Towhid Hridoy, Shamim Hossain, Jaker Ali, Mahedi Hasan, Nasum Ahmed, Taskin Ahmed, Shoriful Islam, Mustafizur Rahman

SL vs BAN Live Streaming Details

The match will be available for live streaming and telecast across various platforms, depending on the region:

• In India: Live telecast on Sony Sports Network channels; streaming on SonyLIV app and website.
• In Pakistan: Free streaming on Tamasha app.
• In USA: Streaming on Willow TV via Sling TV.
• Other Regions: FanCode for select areas; YuppTV in Continental Europe, Southeast Asia, and more. Check local listings for additional broadcasters.

Squads

Bangladesh Squad: Saif Hassan, Tanzid Hasan Tamim, Litton Das(w/c), Towhid Hridoy, Shamim Hossain, Jaker Ali, Nurul Hasan, Nasum Ahmed, Rishad Hossain, Mustafizur Rahman, Taskin Ahmed, Tanzim Hasan Sakib, Shoriful Islam, Parvez Hossain Emon, Mohammad Saifuddin, Mahedi Hasan

Sri Lanka Squad: Pathum Nissanka, Kusal Mendis(w), Kamil Mishara, Kusal Perera, Charith Asalanka(c), Kamindu Mendis, Dasun Shanaka, Wanindu Hasaranga, Dushmantha Chameera, Nuwan Thushara, Nuwanidu Fernando, Binura Fernando, Chamika Karunaratne, Janith Liyanage, Matheesha Pathirana, Maheesh Theekshana