In the Super 4 stage of the Asia Cup 2023, Bangladesh’s Towhid Hridoy put on a stellar performance, but his heroic efforts ultimately couldn’t secure victory as Sri Lanka triumphed by 21 runs in their inaugural match at this stage of the tournament.
Bangladesh’s Shakib Al Hasan opted to field first against Sri Lanka, who set a challenging target of 257 runs, largely courtesy of Sadeera Samarawickrama’s stellar batting display at Colombo’s R. Premadasa Stadium.
Bangladesh got off to a strong start in their run-chase, but their momentum was halted when Mehidy Hasan Miraz was dismissed by Sri Lankan skipper Dasun Shanaka after scoring 28 runs. Subsequently, Bangladesh lost wickets at regular intervals.
After Litton Das’s departure, the experienced batsmen Mashfiqur Rahim and Hridoy forged a crucial 72-run partnership, offering a glimmer of hope for their team. However, Shanaka removed Hridoy after he had contributed 29 runs.
Towhid Hridoy emerged as the standout performer for Bangladesh, amassing an impressive 82 runs from 97 balls. Unfortunately, his valiant efforts went unrewarded as Maheesh Theekshana claimed his wicket, resulting in Bangladesh being bowled out for 236 runs in 48.1 overs.
For Sri Lanka, Theekshana and Shanaka both shone with the ball, each taking three wickets, while Matheesha Pathirana secured two crucial wickets.
Sadeera Samarawickrama led the charge for the home team, top-scoring with a brilliant 93 runs off 72 balls, featuring eight fours and two sixes. Kusal Mendis also made a significant contribution, scoring 50 runs from 73 balls, including six fours and a six.
Bangladesh’s Hasan Mahmud and Taskin Ahmed were the standout bowlers, both claiming three wickets.
Despite the thrilling encounter, Sri Lanka maintained their perfect record in the ongoing Asia Cup 2023, having not suffered a single loss thus far in the tournament.
