Sri Lanka and Bangladesh are set to cross paths in the fifth match of the ongoing Asia Cup on Saturday at Sheikh Zayed Stadium, Abu Dhabi. The match carries added significance due to recent form and rivalry between the two sides.
Traditionally, Sri Lanka have held the upper hand against Bangladesh. But the balance of power appears to be shifting, with Bangladesh having had the better run in recent encounters. They claimed a 2-1 T20I series victory in Sri Lanka in July this year. Prior to that, the two sides met in the T20I World Cup in Dallas, where Bangladesh again emerged victorious.
These back-to-back wins have made Bangladesh a formidable challenger. Sri Lanka, who will be playing their first match, will be keen to shake off any rust and get their campaign off to a strong start. For Sri Lanka, all eyes will be on seasoned campaigners like Kusal Mendis, Wanindu Hasaranga, and Charith Asalnaka to set the tone.
Bangladesh, on the other hand, come into the match with momentum on their side, having secured a comfortable win against Hong Kong in their opening fixture.
Head-to-head
Matches - 20
SL Won - 12
BAN won - 8
Bangladesh likely XI: Pervez Hossain Emon, Tanzid Hasan, Litton Das (c&wk), Towhid Hridoy, Jaker Ali, Shamim Hossain, Mahedi Hasan, Rishad Hossain, Tanzim Hasan Sakib, Taskin Ahmed, Mustafizur Rahman.
Sri Lanka likely XI: Pathum Nissanka, Kusal Mendis (wk), Kamil Mishara, Kusal Perera, Charith Asalanka (c), Kamindu Mendis, Dasun Shanaka, Wanindu Hasaranga, Dushmantha Chameera, Binura Fernando, Nuwan Thushara.