Sri Lanka marginal favourites vs Bangladesh as Super 4’s begin, going into this game with momentum on their side.
For a few days, Bangladeshi cricket supporters had to suppress their animosity towards Sri Lanka because, ultimately, they needed Sri Lanka to defeat Afghanistan in order to qualify for the Asia Cup. Fans of Bangladesh were ecstatic with the way things turned out. Self-deprecating memes using images of the Sri Lankan flag or Bangladeshis sporting Sri Lankan jerseys have been circulating on social media in Bangladesh.
Although there have been many embarrassing aspects to the rivalry that has grown over the past seven years, it is also true that the players have always been able to step up their game when competing against one another. The first Super Four stage match on Saturday is therefore much anticipated.
In the Asia Cup, Charith Asalanka’s team has been the more dominant one. They defeated Bangladesh in one of their three group matches. Strangely, Hong Kong exerted more pressure on them than either Bangladesh or Afghanistan could.
Crucially for them, Pathum Nissanka was relieved of the pressure when Kusal and Kamindu Mendis took control of the 170-run chase against Afghanistan. The opener has been begging for help and has been playing well. He was eventually able to receive it from Sri Lanka, and he will use that as motivation as the tournament draws to a close.
Bangladesh has a chance to change its direction. With Parvez Hossain Emon losing his spot on the team, part of it has already started. Although Saif Hassan, who replaced him, has shown himself capable, Sri Lanka will be a tough test for the comeback player. When the teams last faced each other, Bangladesh had to start the match with back-to-back wicket maidens. They also need to figure out how to balance their bowling. In the last game, their fifth-bowler combo of Shamim Hossain and Saif didn’t work.
Compared to the previous game, this one looks to be a closer fight. The first set of points is critical, and the stakes are bigger. Following a brief period of calm, Asalanka and Litton Das will likewise be leading two teams of players keen to outshine one another.