BAN vs SL (5th Match) – Highlights
Sri Lanka pulled off a commanding six-wicket victory over Bangladesh in the 5th Match of Group B in the Asia Cup 2025 at Abu Dhabi, chasing down a modest target of 140 in just 14.4 overs. After a shaky start, Bangladesh posted 139 for 5 in their 20 overs, but Sri Lanka’s experienced batting lineup, led by Kamil Mishara and Pathum Nissanka, ensured the visitors comfortably surpassed the target with 32 balls to spare.
Bangladesh’s innings began disastrously, losing both openers, Tanzid Hasan and Parvez Hossain Emon, without adding a run to the scoreboard in the first two overs. The early collapse put immense pressure on captain Litton Das and the middle order. Das tried to stabilize the innings, contributing a brisk 28 off 26 balls, supported by Jaker Ali and Shamim Hossain, who scored unbeaten 41 and 42 respectively. Despite their valiant efforts, the innings never gained real momentum as the early wickets and disciplined bowling by Wanindu Hasaranga and Mahedi Hasan kept the run rate in check. Bangladesh’s total of 139 for 5 reflected a combination of cautious batting and an inability to capitalize on the powerplay.
Sri Lanka’s chase was anchored by an explosive innings from Pathum Nissanka. The opening batter struck 50 off just 34 deliveries, hitting six boundaries and a six, providing the foundation for a steady chase. Kamil Mishara played the perfect supporting role, remaining unbeaten on 46 from 32 balls, displaying excellent shot selection and composure under pressure. Their partnership was pivotal in maintaining a healthy run rate while neutralizing the occasional breakthroughs from Mahedi Hasan and Mustafizur Rahman. Kusal Mendis and Kusal Perera provided brief contributions, but the task was well in hand by the time Mishara and Charith Asalanka steered Sri Lanka across the line.
Bangladesh’s bowling had moments of promise, particularly from Mahedi Hasan, who took two crucial wickets, and Mustafizur Rahman, who managed to dismiss Kusal Mendis. Tanzim Hasan Sakib also chipped in with a wicket, but none of these breakthroughs came at a time that significantly threatened the chase. Extras proved costly for Bangladesh as well, with 11 runs given away in their innings and 21 extras conceded by Sri Lanka, reflecting a slightly undisciplined fielding effort. Sri Lanka’s bowlers had earlier done a commendable job of restricting Bangladesh’s top order, but it was the disciplined and well-timed batting that ultimately decided the outcome.
The match showcased Sri Lanka’s depth and experience, particularly in the middle order, and emphasized Bangladesh’s ongoing struggle to handle pressure in the early overs of a T20 chase. Nissanka and Mishara’s combined 96 runs exemplified the importance of partnerships in a T20 chase, while Bangladesh will need to rethink their strategy and shot selection when facing high-pressure situations in future games.
Bangladesh vs Sri Lanka Scoreboard
Bangladesh – 139/5 (20)
Sri Lanka – 140/4 (14.4/20)
Result – Sri Lanka won by 6 wickets (with 32 balls remaining)
Player of the Match – Kamil Mishara
Kamil Mishara
BAN vs SL Playing XIs
Bangladesh | Litton Das (c & wk), Tanzid Hasan, Parvez Hossain Emon, Towhid Hridoy, Mahedi Hasan, Jaker Ali, Shamim Hossain, Rishad Hossain, Tanzim Hasan Sakib, Shoriful Islam, Mustafizur Rahman |
Sri Lanka | Charith Asalanka (c), Pathum Nissanka, Kusal Mendis (wk), Kamil Mishara, Kusal Perera, Dasun Shanaka, Kamindu Mendis, Wanindu Hasaranga, Dushmantha Chameera, Matheesha Pathirana, Nuwan Thushara |
