Abu Dhabi,September 14(HS):

Sri Lanka opened their 2025 Asia Cup campaign emphatically by defeating Bangladesh by six wickets at the Sheikh Zayed Stadium in Abu Dhabi on Saturday.

Sri Lankan bowlers set the tone early, with pacers Nuwan Thushara and Dushmantha Chameera delivering impeccable spells of wicket maidens to reduce Bangladesh to 53 for 5. Spinner Wanindu Hasaranga complemented the pace attack, restricting Bangladesh to a modest total of 139 for 5 in their 20 overs. Although Bangladesh’s Shamim Hossain (42* not out) and Jaker Ali (41*) stitched together a record 86-run sixth-wicket partnership to revive their innings, it was not enough to challenge Sri Lanka’s chase.

In response, opener Pathum Nissanka played a commanding knock of 50 runs off 34 balls, becoming the fastest Sri Lankan to reach 2,000 T20 international runs—accomplishing the feat in just 68 innings. His fluent strokeplay combined with a solid 95-run partnership alongside Kamil Mishara, who remained unbeaten on 46 from 32 balls, guided Sri Lanka to victory with over five overs to spare.

Sri Lanka reached 140 for 4 in 14.4 overs, asserting dominance in all departments and securing two valuable points in Group B. This comprehensive win not only boosts their confidence but also enhances their net run rate, crucial in the tightly contested group stages of the tournament.

Sri Lanka’s all-round performance showcased the balance and depth of their squad, with bowlers striking early and batsmen handling the chase with control under pressure. Bangladesh now face an uphill task to recover in the tournament, needing strong performances in their upcoming fixtures.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar