Bangladesh completed a stunning 137-run win over Sri Lanka in the Asia Cup Super Fours. They successfully pursued a total of 170 runs, making the winning runs on the second to last ball of the game. The matchup opened up in a thrilling 66,000 capacity stadium, with both clubs fighting hard and presenting an equally impressive display of skill on the pitch.
Sri Lanka batted first, setting the hosts a somewhat par total of 169 runs off their allotted 19.5 overs for the loss of six wickets. It was a story of individual excellence for their innings but Bangladesh showed heart in their run-chase and took them to victory.
Saif Hassan’s performance was the cornerstone of Bangladesh’s response – his 61 runs were key. His work set the stage for the team’s long chase. The innings got off to a disastrous start as opener Tanzid Hasan Tamim fell on the first ball, scoring a duck. Skipper Litton Das contributed a paltry 23 runs. It was Tawhid Hridoy’s breathtaking innings of 58 runs off just 41 balls that brought Bangladesh within sight of the target.
The game tilted again as Bangladesh lost a plethora of middle order wickets in rapid succession. Shamim Hossain had a good knock and scored 14 runs before getting out, whereas Jaker Ali chipped in 9 runs to the total. Shak Mahedi Hasan was out to score without scoring a run. Nasum Ahmed compounded to pain as he could only muster a single run, further piling the pressure on a deflated team.
Sri Lanka’s bowlers provided an inspired performance to defend their total. Thushara’s four overs went for 42 runs, with one wicket to her credit. Chameera was equally impressive, taking one for 32 in his four-over spell. Wellalage’s only contribution came in his four overs where he returned 0/36. At the other end, Hasaranga was brilliantly economical, picking up two wickets whilst conceding just 22 runs in the same number of overs. Shanaka contributed significantly as well, taking two wickets for 21 runs in 2.5 overs, while Kamindu Mendis’ single over cost 16 runs without any wickets.
When the game was almost over, Bangladesh needed only a handful of runs in the last few balls. Nerves were certainly frayed as they headed into the match’s closing minutes. In an incredibly exciting climax, they won off the final ball, demonstrating their spirit and fighting spirit.
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