The Super 4 stage of the Asia Cup exploded into action with a thrilling encounter in Dubai, as Bangladesh snatched a dramatic four-wicket victory against Sri Lanka in a last-over showdown.
Chasing a target of 169 runs, Bangladesh demonstrated remarkable composure, securing the win on the penultimate ball of the innings. The decisive moment came when Nasum Ahmed and Shamim Hossain scrambled for a crucial single, sealing a memorable triumph. Despite needing just five runs in the final over, a sudden loss of two wickets threatened to derail their chase, making for a truly nervy finish.
This hard-fought victory has dramatically intensified the Super 4 race, where only two teams will advance to the final. Every win is vital, and this result means net run rate could play a significant role in determining the qualifiers.
The foundation for Bangladesh’s successful chase was masterfully laid by opener Saif Hassan and anchored by Towhid Hridoy, with Litton Das also providing essential contributions. After Nuwan Tushara delivered an early blow by dismissing Tanzid Tamim in the first over, Saif and Litton launched a brilliant counterattack, propelling Bangladesh to a strong 59 runs in the Powerplay.
Hassan was the star with the bat, scoring a fluent 61 runs off just 45 balls, a knock adorned with four towering sixes and two fours. Towhid Hridoy complemented him perfectly with a sparkling 58 from 37 deliveries. His dismissal, agonizingly close to the finish line, added an extra layer of tension to the match.
Earlier in the day, Sri Lanka had posted a competitive total of 168/7, largely thanks to a blistering performance from Dasun Shanaka. Promoted up the order, the former Sri Lankan captain delighted the crowd with an unbeaten 64 off a mere 37 balls, featuring six enormous sixes and three boundaries.
Bangladesh’s bowling unit was largely effective, with Mustafizur Rahman leading the charge with impressive figures of 3 wickets for just 20 runs. Sri Lankan batsmen collectively cleared the ropes 11 times, marking the second-highest number of sixes in a T20I Asia Cup innings, trailing only India’s 12 against Hong Kong in 2022.
Brief Scores: Sri Lanka 168/7 (Dasun Shanaka 64*, Kusal Mendis 34; Mustafizur Rahman 3/20, Mahedi Hasan 2/25) lost to Bangladesh 169/6 in 19.5 overs (Saif Hassan 61, Towhid Hridoy 58) by 4 wickets.