Bangladesh produced a commanding all-round performance to dismantle Sri Lanka by 39 runs and finish top of Group B in the Under-19 Asia Cup in Dubai.
The foundation of Bangladesh’s victory was laid by their top order. Openers Zawad Abrar and Rifat Beg set the tone with a solid 84-run partnership, before skipper Azizul Hakim and Kalam Siddiki steadied the innings further with a 53-run stand for the third wicket. From a strong position, however, Bangladesh lost momentum, slumping from 163 for 3 to 225 all out in 46.3 overs, as offspinner Kavija Gamage tore through the middle and lower order with impressive figures of 4 for 38.
In reply, Sri Lanka never found their rhythm. Early breakthroughs left them reeling at 38 for 3 after 14 overs, and although Chamika Heenatigala fought back with a determined 41, wickets continued to fall at regular intervals. By the time Sri Lanka slid to 126 for 8, the contest was effectively over. A few late blows from Aadham Hilmy only delayed the inevitable, as Sri Lanka were eventually bowled out for 186. Iqbal Hossain Emon (3 for 37) and Shahriar Ahmed (3 for 27) led the charge with the ball for Bangladesh.
With this result, Bangladesh finish as group toppers and will face Pakistan in the semi-final. Sri Lanka, meanwhile, will take on India in the first semi-final. Both matches are scheduled for Friday, December 19, in Dubai.
