The second match of the Asia Cup 2023 is anticipated to be an exciting showdown between Bangladesh and Sri Lanka. After a recent ODI series loss to Afghanistan, Bangladesh, led by an experienced captain, aims for a strong comeback.
Sri Lanka faces injury challenges but seeks to capitalize on home advantage for their first points in the tournament. Despite historically struggling against Sri Lanka in ODIs and the Asia Cup, Bangladesh is determined to change their fortunes.
Both teams are eager to kick off the tournament on a positive note, setting the stage for a closely contested match.
VENUE FOR SRI LANKA v BANGLADESH
Pallekele International Cricket Stadium has big boundaries, but the outfield is lightning-quick. It has been a great venue for batsmen, and we have seen lots of runs being made here. There isn’t much on this surface for the fast bowlers, but spinners have done well as the ball turns sharply on this track.
We will see overcast skies over Pallekele; rain may disrupt the game. The conditions will make it a good day for the bowlers. However, this is a flat surface where the ball comes to the bat. The side that bats first here would like 280 runs or more on the board to feel safe.
Average 1st Innings Score: 250
Average 2nd Innings Score: 202
TEAM PREVIEW
BANGLADESH
Shakib al Hasan aims to overcome Bangladesh’s past struggles against their opponents and begin the tournament with a victory. As the team’s most seasoned player, he intends to lead by example. Capitalizing on the opponent’s injury issues is the Bangladeshi skipper’s plan.
The team received a big blow as Litton Das was ruled out from the tournament due to viral fever. So the openers would be in the form Tanzim Tamim and Naim Sheikh. In-form players Nazmul Hossain Shanto and Towhid Hridoy will steer the middle order. Adding depth, Mushfiqur Rahim, Afif Hossain, and Mehidy Hasan Miraz aspire to perform well.
Using the new ball effectively falls upon Hasan Mahmud and Mustafizur Rahman against the aggressive Sri Lankan batters. Shakib and Mehidy Hasan Miraz, the experienced bowlers, aim to restrain the Lankans. Ebadot Hossain and Shoriful Islam, in supporting roles, are crucial for securing a victory.
PROBABLE XI OF BANGLADESH v SRI LANKA
Shakib Al Hasan (c), Naim Sheikh, Tanzim Tamim, Najmul Hossain Shanto, Towhid Hridoy, Mushfiqur Rahim (wk), Afif Hossain, Mehidy Hasan Miraz, Shoriful Islam, Hasan Mahmud, Ebadot Hossain, Mustafizur Rahman
SRI LANKA
Dasun Shanaka’s team is grappling with injuries as they approach the game. Four key players are sidelined due to injuries, affecting the team’s balance. Nonetheless, Shanaka and his squad have the advantage of playing at home and a positive track record against Bangladesh. The captain hopes his team will draw motivation from past victories for a strong performance.
To perform well, a solid start is crucial for Pathum Nissanka and Dimuth Karunaratne, who have shown good form recently. The middle order, comprising Kusal Mendis, Sadeera Samarawickrama, and Charith Asalanka, will focus on building partnerships. Shanaka and Dhananjaya de Silva need to contribute quick runs in the lower middle order to counter the challenges posed by Bangladeshi bowlers.
Kasun Rajitha and Dunith Wellalage need to bowl tightly with the new ball as the Bangladeshi opening batsmen are in good shape. The absence of Wanindu Hasaranga is a setback, demanding strong performances from Maheesh Theekshana and Matheesha Pathirana in the middle overs. Dhananjaya de Silva and Shanaka have important roles to play in supporting the team’s efforts.
PROBABLE XI OF SRI LANKA v BANGLADESH
Dasun Shanaka (c), Pathum Nissanka, Dimuth Karunaratne, Kusal Mendis (wk), Sadeera Samarawickrama, Charith Asalanka, Dhananjaya de Silva, Dunith Wellalage, Maheesh Theekshana, Kasun Rajitha, Matheesha Pathirana
PREDICTION FOR SRI LANKA v BANGLADESH
Bangladesh has a strong team, but the side has failed against Sri Lanka in multilateral competitions. They don’t have a good record playing in Sri Lanka. Hence, the side must put the upsets of the past behind them to win here.
The Sri Lankans have injury issues, but they are tough to beat at home. We expect a close game, but the Lankans have a slight edge.
Sri Lanka to win
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