Dasun Shanaka and Charitha Asalanaka. (Photo Source: Pankaj Nangia/Getty Images)
In the second match of the ongoing Asia Cup 2023, Sri Lanka managed to pick up a comfortable five-wicket win and with that, the defending champions took a massive step towards the Super Four. Notably, batting first, the Shakib Al Hasan-led side struggled to get going right from the start. Najmul Hosein Shanto was the only player who managed to get going as courtesy of his 89 runs, Bangladesh managed to post 164 runs in the first innings.
When it came to the chase, Sadeera Samarawickrama and Charith Asalanka batted really well as the home team took some time but got the job done at the end of the day. They chased down with absolute ease and eventually won the match by five wickets.
Talking Points from the 1st match between Sri Lanka and Bangladesh:
Matheesa Pathirana picks four-fer
In the absence of Dilshan Madushanka and Lahiru Kumara, Matheesa Pathirana had a tough job in the opening game against Bangladesh. However, he remained calm and picked up four wickets to restrict Bangladesh to 164 runs.
Sadeera Samarawickrama shifts momentum
After three quick wickets, Sadeera Samarawickrama helped Sri Lanka get out of a difficult phase. Batting at number four, the 28-year-old hit 54 runs to change the complexion of the game.
Charith Asalanka gives the final blow
Asalanka supported Samarawickrama well in the middle and after he got out, the batter accelerated. The 26-year-old eventually hit 62 runs and helped the home team win the match by five wickets.
Losing skipper Shakib Al Hasan said:
It wasn’t a 300 wicket. 220-230 would’ve given us more chance. Didn’t bat well as a unit. Have to regroup, and have another important game in a couple of days. Needed a couple more wickets when they were 3 down for 30. We picked up wickets but didn’t have enough on the board. There were a lot of nerves when we started the game. A lot of guys playing Asia Cup for the first time. They’ve been playing good cricket that’s why they’re in the dressing room.
Winning skipper Dasun Shanaka said:
The way bowlers executed, credit to them. Especially Theekshana up front, Dhananjaya, and Pathirana who’s bowling so well. Tricky surface. The way Sadeera batted, today was his day. Asalanka has been outstanding over the last 2 years. Good signs for Sri Lankan cricket.
POTM Matheesa Pathirana said:
This is my first POTM for my country – really happy about that. T20 skills are good for death overs. That’s why I took my wickets with the slower balls. My action is unpredictable. It’s a good advantage for me.