Sri Lanka has been the second-most successful teams in the history of the Asia Cup since 1984. They have won the title six times, the last one coming last year albeit a T20 one. Meanwhile, India and Sri Lanka have managed to assert their dominance in the continental and surprisingly, Pakistan have won only twice. Meanwhile, the Lankan Lions have dominated in the tournament despite having up and downs in their cricket. In this listicle, we will discuss their three biggest victories in ODI Asia Cups.
1. Against Bangladesh in Asia Cup 2008
In the Super Four game between both teams, the Lankan Lions batted first after winning the toss. The likes of Sanath Jayasuriya (130) and Kumar Sangakkara (121) provided a dream start with a partnership of 201 runs in 27.5 overs. At this stage, it looked like the eventual champions will get 400 plus runs.
The mini-collapse ensured that the team as rather restricted to 332/8. However, it was more than enough as it turned out in the end. Bangladesh Tigers were tamed for 174 all-out, losing the game by 158 runs. This is still Sri Lanka’s biggest win in ODI Asia Cups.
2. Against United Arab Emirates in 2008
Four days before registering their biggest win in ODI Asia Cups, Sri Lanka set a record of 142-run win for themselves. In what was a Group A game against minnows, UAE, the Lions batted first and somehow managed to get 290/9 at the end of the innings. The likes of Mahela Udawatte and Mahela Jayawardene scored fifties.
However, the middle-eastern side didn’t even came close and were bowled out for 148 runs. Ajantha Mendis took a five-wicket haul and brushed aside the inexperienced batting line-up.
3. Against Bangladesh in 2008
In the Group A game played between both teams, the Blue Brigade, Lanka did a bit better in the batting as they amassed 357/9 at the end of the innings. Jayasuriya blasted 72 runs in 47 balls but Sangakkara amassed 101 runs. Chamara Kapugedera also scored a half-century.
In reply, unlike their Super Four game, the Green Brigade showed some fight and reached 226/7. With this, the Lankans won the game by 131 runs.