Why Did Sri Lanka Choose to Field Against Bangladesh in the Asia Cup?
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Synopsis
In a dramatic opening to the Asia Cup 2025, Sri Lanka has opted to field first against Bangladesh after winning the toss. With key player Taskin Ahmed out, Shoriful Hasan steps in. Both teams are vying for crucial points in this high-stakes encounter. Can Sri Lanka maintain their historical edge over Bangladesh?
Key Takeaways
- Sri Lanka won the toss and chose to bowl first.
- Taskin Ahmed is replaced by Shoriful Hasan in Bangladesh's lineup.
- Recent T20I history favors Bangladesh, having won their last series against Sri Lanka.
- Both teams are in a tightly contested group, heightening the stakes.
- Wanindu Hasaranga is confirmed to play for Sri Lanka.
Abu Dhabi, Sep 13 (NationPress) In the fifth match of the Asia Cup 2025, Sri Lanka emerged victorious in the toss and chose to bowl first against Bangladesh at the Sheikh Zayed Stadium on Saturday.
For Bangladesh, pace bowler Taskin Ahmed, who claimed two wickets in their inaugural match against Hong Kong, will not participate today and is replaced by Shoriful Hasan. Sri Lanka's captain, Charith Asalanka, confirmed that all-rounder Wanindu Hasaranga will be in action for their opening match.
Winning the toss, Sri Lanka's captain Asalanka stated, “We are opting to bowl. It seems like a fresh pitch, and we want to take advantage of that. It’s a memorable moment for us, and we aim to sustain our momentum. I am facing a good challenge as captain, backed by a strong lineup of players, including a 7-4 combination and three all-rounders. Hasaranga is set to play.”
Meanwhile, Bangladesh's captain Litton Das expressed, “We’re comfortable batting first; the pitch appears to be favorable. We showcased solid cricket in our previous game, but improvements are necessary. To secure a win, we need to get every aspect right. Taskin is out, and Shoriful steps in.”
Sri Lanka has a historical edge in T20I encounters with a record of 12 wins to Bangladesh's 8. However, recent performances favor Bangladesh, who achieved their first T20I series victory in Sri Lanka earlier this year, winning 2-1 and also besting them in a nail-biting match at the 2024 World Cup.
With Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, and Afghanistan — currently ranked 8th, 9th, and 10th in the ICC T20I standings — all competing in the same group, each match is crucial.
Playing XIs:
Bangladesh: Parvez Hossain Emon, Tanzid Hasan Tamim, Litton Das (wk/c), Towhid Hridoy, Jaker Ali, Shamim Hossain, Mahedi Hasan, Rishad Hossain, Tanzim Hasan Sakib, Shoriful Islam, Mustafizur Rahman
Sri Lanka: Pathum Nissanka, Kusal Mendis (wk), Kamil Mishara, Kusal Perera, Charith Asalanka (c), Kamindu Mendis, Dasun Shanaka, Wanindu Hasaranga, Dushmantha Chameera, Binura Fernando, Nuwan Thushara
Point of View
Our perspective remains committed to delivering unbiased coverage of the Asia Cup. The ongoing tournament is not just about victories; it's about the stories, the players, and the passion that cricket ignites in nations. Both Sri Lanka and Bangladesh have their strengths, and the stakes couldn't be higher for this encounter.
NationPress
13/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the significance of this match in the Asia Cup?
This match is crucial as it involves teams ranked 8th, 9th, and 10th in the ICC T20I standings, making every point essential for their progression.
Who replaced Taskin Ahmed in the Bangladesh squad?
Shoriful Hasan has replaced Taskin Ahmed, who was unavailable for this match.
What is the historical head-to-head record between Sri Lanka and Bangladesh in T20Is?
Sri Lanka leads the T20I head-to-head record against Bangladesh with 12 wins to their 8.
