Dubai, September 20, 2025 – The highly anticipated Super Four stage of the Asia Cup 2025 kicks off today with a mouth-watering clash between Sri Lanka and Bangladesh at the Dubai International Stadium.
For the very first time, eight nations featured in this edition of the Asia Cup, and after two weeks of intense group-stage battles, only four contenders remain. India and Pakistan have advanced from Group A, while Sri Lanka and Bangladesh emerged from Group B after surviving their respective tests.
Sri Lanka enter this stage with confidence, carrying an unbeaten run and the tag of defending champions. Their campaign has been built around a strong batting core, with Pathum Nissanka leading the run charts thanks to two vital half-centuries. Kusal Mendis’ timely return to form and the emergence of Kamil Mishara have further strengthened their top order. However, the middle order has shown patches of inconsistency and could be tested against a disciplined Bangladesh attack. On the bowling front, Dushmantha Chameera’s fiery spells, including a four-wicket haul against Afghanistan, have stood out. Wanindu Hasaranga and Maheesh Theekshana remain the spin weapons on UAE’s dry surfaces, though Sri Lanka will feel the absence of Dunith Wellalage, who returned home due to a personal tragedy.
Bangladesh, meanwhile, arrive at this contest with renewed energy after reshuffling their XI in the previous outing. Their biggest concern had been over-reliance on skipper Litton Das, but the new opening pair of Saif Hassan and Tanzid Hasan provided stability at the top, easing some of the pressure. With Nasum Ahmed’s inclusion, the bowling unit looked sharper, while Taskin Ahmed and Mustafizur Rahman continued to provide control and experience. Tanzim Hasan Sakib’s pace has also added bite, making Bangladesh a much more balanced side as they seek momentum in the Super Four stage.
Recent history gives this contest added spice. Sri Lanka beat Bangladesh in the group stage earlier this month, but Bangladesh will be eager to settle the score, especially after winning a T20I series on Sri Lankan soil just two months ago. While Sri Lanka hold a 13-8 advantage in head-to-head encounters, Bangladesh have won three of the last five meetings, proving this rivalry is anything but one-sided.
Often overshadowed by the India-Pakistan spectacle, the Sri Lanka-Bangladesh rivalry has quietly produced some of the most gripping contests in Asia Cup history. With a Super Four spot at stake and momentum on the line, fans can expect nothing less than another high-voltage encounter under the lights in Dubai.