Abu Dhabi, September 13, 2025 – A gripping contest awaits cricket fans as Bangladesh and Sri Lanka go head-to-head today in Match 5 of the Asia Cup 2025 at Zayed Cricket Stadium, Abu Dhabi.
Group B has already been described as the “group of death,” with Sri Lanka, Afghanistan, Bangladesh, and Hong Kong, China competing for only two Super Four spots. Every game carries massive importance, and two points from this clash could heavily influence the qualification race.
For Bangladesh, momentum is on their side. Litton Das’s team registered a narrow win in their opener against Hong Kong, China. The bowlers—Taskin Ahmed, Tanzim Hasan Sakib, and Rishad Hossain—shared wickets, though their execution at the death overs left space for improvement. During the chase, Litton Das and Towhid Hridoy kept calm under pressure, rotating the strike effectively when boundaries were hard to come by. Their approach could serve as the batting template for Bangladesh in Abu Dhabi, where clearing the ropes isn’t always easy.
Sri Lanka, the defending Asia Cup T20I champions from 2022, are stepping into their first game of the tournament. Their recent form has been inconsistent—they lost a home series to Bangladesh in July and were tested in Zimbabwe. However, the return of Wanindu Hasaranga after a hamstring injury is a huge boost. Alongside all-rounders Dasun Shanaka, Chamika Karunaratne, and Janith Liyanage, his presence adds balance to both batting and bowling.
Pathum Nissanka has been Sri Lanka’s most reliable run-scorer in 2025, but support from senior players like Kusal Perera, Kusal Mendis, and Charith Asalanka will be crucial. On the bowling side, Dushmantha Chameera looks sharp after his comeback in Zimbabwe and will lead the pace attack with Nuwan Thushara, Binura Fernando, and Matheesha Pathirana. Spin duties will once again rely on Maheesh Theekshana, who will look to rediscover his best form on the big stage.
As the two teams prepare to lock horns, both carry something to prove—Sri Lanka seeking a confident start, and Bangladesh aiming to strengthen their hold on a Super Four berth. With form, injuries, and recent history all playing a part, this clash promises to be one of the defining battles of the group stage.