Dubai: Bangladesh captain Liton Das won the toss and sent Sri Lanka into bat first in their Asia Cup Super Fours opening game at Dubai International Cricket Stadium today. Bangladesh entered the Super Fours as Group runners-up, with their only defeat coming at the hands of Sri Lanka. This match, therefore, serves as a chance for redemption while also being crucial for their advancement in the tournament.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Bangladesh made two changes to their playing squad from the previous game against Afghanistan, which they won by eight runs. Mahedi Hasan and Shoriful Islam have been included, replacing Nurul Hasan Sohan and Rishad Hossain. Liton Das expressed confidence that winning the toss would provide them an advantage over Sri Lanka. "When I saw the first leg, the second team won," Liton said after the toss. "I am also confused about the wicket, so want to bowl. We are very excited. All the members are doing a great job," he added.
Sri Lanka, on the other hand, will take the field less than 48 hours after their six-wicket victory against Afghanistan. They have opted to retain the same squad for this match. Sri Lanka's captain, Charith Asalanka, echoed Liton's sentiment regarding the toss, stating, "I would have done the same thing (bowl first)," while emphasizing the importance of the toss. "The pitch is on the dry side, doesn't matter. It is a used pitch, so doesn't matter that we are batting first," he added.
Line Ups:
Bangladesh: Saif Hassan, Tanzid Hasan Tamim, Liton Das(w/c), Towhid Hridoy, Shamim Patwari, Jaker Ali Anik, Mahedi Hasan, Nasum Ahmed, Taskin Ahmed, Shoriful Islam, Mustafizur Rahman
Sri Lanka: Pathum Nissanka, Kusal Mendis(w), Kamil Mishara, Kusal Perera, Charith Asalanka(c), Dasun Shanaka, Kamindu Mendis, Wanindu Hasaranga, Dunith Wellalage, Dushmantha Chameera, Nuwan Thushara