Asia Cup 2023, Match 2: Bangladesh vs Sri Lanka Preview

Match 2 of Asia Cup 2023 will see Bangladesh squaring off against Sri Lanka on Thursday, August 31.

Published - 30 Aug 2023, 19:20 IST | Updated - 30 Aug 2023, 19:22 IST

3 Min Read

Sri Lanka and Bangladesh begin their campaign in Asia Cup 2023 on Thursday, August 31 as they lock horns at the Pallekele International Cricket Stadium in Pallekele.

Bangladesh are known for being a consistent side in ODI cricket, especially in sub-continental conditions. However, they suffered a rare series defeat at home against Afghanistan by a 2-1 margin last month. Shakib Al Hasan and Co. will look to bounce back in a tournament where they have done well in the past.

Sri Lanka have been hit with some unfortunate injuries that have ruled out some of their best players in the team out of the Asia Cup 2023. While the likes of Dilshan Madushanka and Dushmantha Chameera will not play a part in the six-team event, in-form all-rounder Wanindu Hasaranga’s absence will be felt the most. However, this throws up opportunities for some exciting youngsters to light up the stage.

Both teams have developed a fierce rivalry in recent years. The fans have also been involved in making this rivalry more intriguing. The two teams will look to get off to a good start in a group that can be tricky with the presence of an unpredictable Afghanistan side.

Pitch and conditions:

Both teams have some good spinners in their ranks. Pallekele has traditionally been a pitch which batters have favoured. As the game goes on, spinners start to make an impact. Therefore, the captain who wins the toss could look to bat first.

Probable Playing XI For BAN vs SL:

Bangladesh

The Tigers have a good mix of youth and experience in their squad. However, they will miss the services of one of their most experienced batters, Litton Das. Towhid Hridoy has been in scintillating form in recent times, not only for the national team but also in global leagues. He will certainly be a player to keep an eye on. Shakib Al Hasan will once again have to lead from the front as his team's hopes will depend to a great extent on how he performs.

Probable Playing XI: Afif Hossain, Naim Sheikh, Najmul Hossain Shanto, Mushfiqur Rahim (wk), Towid Hridoy, Mehidy Hasan Miraz, Shakib Al Hasan (c), Mustafizur Rahman, Taskin Ahmed, Shoriful Islam, Mahedi Hasan

Sri Lanka

The defending champions have their task cut out as they have a lot of players who will be new to the scene. Their batting looks sorted, however, as the likes of Dimuth Karunaratne, Pathum Nissanka, and Kusal Mendis have faced their upcoming opponents on a number of occasions in the past and know what could be asked of them. Dhananjaya de Silva will have to play an important role as an all-rounder in the absence of Hasaranga. Matheesha Pathirana will be the key bowler for Dasun Shanaka's men.

Probable Playing XI: Pathum Nissanka, Dimuth Karunaratne, Kusal Mendis (wk), Sadeera Samarawickrama, Charith Asalanka, Dhananjaya de Silva, Dasun Shanaka (c), Dunith Wellalage, Maheesh Theekshana, Lahiru Kumara, Matheesha Pathirana