Dubai: Pacer Mustafizur Rahman claimed 3-20 in four overs as Bangladesh restricted Sri Lanka to 168-7 in their Asia Cup Super Fours opening game at Dubai International Cricket Stadium.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Dasun Shanaka fought admirably, blasting 64 off 37 balls with three fours and six sixes, giving the Sri Lankan bowlers something to defend amid Bangladesh’s disciplined bowling action spearheaded by Mustafizur. Mahedi Hasan complemented Mustafizur Rahman with figures of 2-25, while Taskin Ahmed chipped in with 1-37.
Bangladesh captain Liton Das’s decision to send Sri Lanka to bat first seemed questionable initially, as the Lankan openers launched a fierce attack from the outset. Kusal Mendis struck 34 off 25 balls, including one four and three sixes, while his partner Pathum Nissanka contributed an aggressive 22 off 15 balls. The pair amassed 44 runs in just five overs before Taskin Ahmed dismissed Nissanka.
Mahedi Hasan further dented Sri Lanka’s innings by taking the wicket of Mendis, helping Bangladesh claw back into the game. The Bangladeshi bowlers delivered exceptional performances in the middle overs, traditionally a weak phase for the team, to stall Sri Lanka’s progress.
Despite the setbacks, Shanaka stood firm, single-handedly steering his side towards a competitive total close to 200. However, with Shanaka still at the crease, Sri Lanka appeared formidable until Mustafizur’s excellent death over bowling changed the dynamics. He conceded only four runs and took two crucial wickets in the penultimate over.
This pivotal over from Mustafizur prevented Sri Lanka from reaching the 170-mark, thereby setting up Bangladesh with a manageable target to chase.