Asia Cup 2023: SL vs BAN Preview – Lankans set for a Bangla clash

After suffering an embarrassing seven-wicket defeat at the hands of Pakistan in the last match, Bangladesh have the pressure of getting the job done against Sri Lanka in order to keep themselves alive in the competition. Their Dasun Shanaka-led side wasn’t great with the ball in against Afghanistan as they were on the verge of elimination but fortunately, the bowlers clicked at the right moment and they managed to cross the line. Overall, they have problems that need to be sorted as well.

Currently, many of their star bowlers in the form of Wanindu Hasaranaga, Dilshan Madushanka and Lahiru Kumara are out and a relatively young brigade is in charge. Maheesh Theekshana and Mathisha Pathirana have done a good job but in the Super 4 stage, only them coming to the party might not be enough. They have done remarkably well in their last match against Bangladesh in the league stage and will be aiming to continue with the same momentum, With the bat, Kusal Mendis and Sadeera Samarawickrama might prove to be crucial.

When it comes to the visiting team, Shakib Al Hasan and Mushfiqur Rahim did well against Pakistan but the others didn’t contribute much. Litton Das, who made his return in the last match, showed glimpses of his form but failed to keep up with it. Bowlers too looked pretty pale and the team needs to work on multiple things.

Pitch Conditions:

There’s a slight chance of rain and hence, bowling first will be ideal. Spinners are likely to get some assistance and anything over 275 runs will be a good total on this surface.

Venue details: R Premadasa Stadium, Colombo

Last ODI match at the venue: Pakistan vs Afghanistan, 2023 | Result: Pakistan won by 59 runs

Probable playing XI for Sri Lanka vs Bangladesh clash:

Sri Lanka

Despite multiple concerns regarding bowling, Sri Lanka are unlikely to make any changes to their playing XI.

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

Bangladesh

Despite losing the last game, Bangladesh will likely back the same setup for the next game. The veterans will have to take some responsibility in keeping their season alive.

Probable XI: Mohammad Naim, Mehidy Hasan Miraz, Litton Das, Towhid Hridoy, Shakib Al Hasan (c), Mushfiqur Rahim (wk), Shamim Hossain, Afif Hossain, Taskin Ahmed, Shoriful Islam, Hasan Mahmud