After losing the first match against Afghanistan, Sri Lanka have secured a place in the Super Four by defeating Bangladesh in a thrilling game. Their record run-chase eliminated Bangladesh from the Asia Cup 2022.
Bangladesh and Sri Lanka both lost their first match against Afghanistan. So, it was a Do or Die match for both teams. Finally, Sri Lanka became successful to qualify for the Super Four. Last night, the Lankans chased 183 runs to beat Bangladesh, which has become the highest run-chase at the Dubai International Cricket Ground.
As it happened
Dasun Shanaka, the T20 captain of Sri Lanka, won the toss and decided to bowl first in this crucial match. So, Bangladesh started their innings with two new openers, Sabbir Rahman and Mehedi Hasan Miraz. Bangladesh have been failing to get a good result on the opening wicket for years. That is why the captain made changes on the opening wicket. However, both batters seemed confident in making a long partnership. But Sabbir Rahman couldn’t contribute enough as he lost his wicket after scoring only five runs.
After that, Mehedi Miraz tried to build a partnership with the skipper, Shakib Al Hasan. They added 39 runs together on the scoreboard. But Wanindu Hasaranga broke their partnership by taking the wicket of Mehedi Hasan in the 7th over. However, he scored 38 off 26 balls before his departure. Captain Shakib also departed the pitch after adding 24 runs.
However, Afif Hossain played a brilliant role in the middle order. He scored the highest 39 runs from 22 balls only. In addition, Mosaddek Hossain started hitting from the very first ball since he came into the pitch. His destroying 24 off 9 balls helped Bangladesh to score183 runs in 20 overs.
Chasing the target, Sri Lanka had a flying start as both openers added 45 runs in the opening partnership. Then Bangladesh got a breakthrough as Ebadot Hossain picked up two wickets in the 6th over. At this point, it seemed Bangladesh could tie up Sri Lanka before 150. But Kusal Mendis made the difference. His brilliant 60 off 37 balls helped Sri Lanka to get closer to the target. Moreover, Dasun Shanaka added another 45 runs for the team, which earned Sri Lanka a brilliant victory against Bangladesh.