Sri Lanka emerged victorious in a crucial Asia Cup Super 4s game against Bangladesh by 21 runs. Sadeera Samarawickrama played a sensational innings, scoring 93 off just 72 balls, which set the foundation for Sri Lanka’s victory. Skipper Dasun Shanaka, Maheesh Theekshana, and Matheesha Pathirana put up a great bowling effort, taking three wickets each. Bangladesh’s Towhid Hridoy fought hard with his 82, but it wasn’t enough to secure a win for his team. With this victory, Sri Lanka remains in contention for the final, while Bangladesh’s hopes are slim.

Sri Lanka batted first and faced some initial setbacks with an early departure of Dimuth Karunaratne. However, Pathum Nissanka and Kusal Mendis steadied the innings with a partnership of 74 runs for the second wicket. Mendis struggled in the middle, but Samarawickrama took charge of the situation and played a fluent innings despite the slow pitch and Bangladesh’s bowlers.

In the chase, Bangladesh had a promising start with openers Mehidy Hasan Miraz and Mohammad Naim adding 55 runs in 11.1 overs. However, Dasun Shanaka broke the partnership and Bangladesh found themselves at 83 for four soon. Mushfiqur Rahim and Towhid Hridoy put up a fight, but the Lankan bowlers kept taking wickets at regular intervals, ultimately restricting Bangladesh to 236.

Sri Lanka’s victory in this game keeps their hopes alive for reaching the final of the Asia Cup. They now have two matches remaining to secure their place. Bangladesh’s chances of entering the title round are all but over after this setback. The match showcased some exceptional performances from both teams, but it was Samarawickrama’s innings and Sri Lanka’s bowling effort that made all the difference. Sri Lanka will look to carry this momentum forward in their upcoming matches and secure their spot in the final.