Bangladesh launched their Super Four campaign in the Asia Cup with a dramatic four-wicket victory over Sri Lanka in Dubai, sealing the match in the final over to move closer to a place in the final.
Chasing 169 for victory at Dubai International Stadium, the Tigers required five runs off the last over.
Zakir Ali struck Dasun Shanaka’s first ball for four to level the scores, leaving Bangladesh one run from victory with five balls remaining. However, two quick wickets — Zakir and Sheikh Mehdi — raised the tension.
It was Nasum Ahmed who ultimately guided Bangladesh home with the decisive run on the fifth ball.
The win gives Bangladesh an early edge in the race for the Asia Cup final. They face Pakistan and India in their next two Super Four fixtures, with one victory likely enough to keep them in contention for the championship match.
Earlier, Sri Lanka posted 168/6 after being sent in to bat. Kusal Mendis and Pathum Nissanka provided a brisk start before Taskin Ahmed struck the first blow. Sheikh Mehdi then removed Mendis and Mishara, slowing the Lankans’ progress. But captain Dasun Shanaka revived the innings with a blazing unbeaten 64 off 37 balls, supported by Charith Asalanka’s 21 off 12, to set a competitive total. Mustafizur Rahman was Bangladesh’s standout bowler, claiming 3/19, while Sheikh Mehdi took two wickets.
Bangladesh’s reply faltered at 1/1 as Tanzid Hasan fell for a duck, but Saif Hasan and Liton Das rebuilt with a 59-run stand off 34 balls. Liton made 23 while Saif powered to 61 from 45 deliveries. Towhid Hridoy then anchored the innings with a responsible 58 off 37 balls — his fourth T20 international fifty — also reaching 1,000 career runs.
Despite late drama, Shamim Hossain and Nasum Ahmed saw Bangladesh over the line, sealing a confidence-boosting start to the Super Four stage.
Bangladesh’s next Super Four match is against India on 24 September.
