BAN vs SL – A burgeoning rivalry will be renewed as Bangladesh and Sri Lanka lock horns in a pivotal Group B clash of the Asia Cup 2025 at the Sheikh Zayed Stadium on Saturday, September 13th. Both teams, with their passionate brand of cricket, are set to provide a spectacle under the Abu Dhabi lights. For Bangladesh, a victory would solidify their position for the next stage, while Sri Lanka will be looking to assert their dominance and get their campaign off to a strong start.
This encounter is more than just a group stage match; it’s a battle for regional supremacy between two nations who have produced some thrilling and at times contentious matches in recent years. With a blend of seasoned campaigners and exciting young talent in both squads, the stage is set for a high-octane cricketing affair.
BAN vs SL Match Details
BAN vs SL Head-to-Head Record
Historically, Sri Lanka has had the upper hand in their encounters with Bangladesh across formats. However, in recent years, Bangladesh has emerged as a formidable opponent, leading to a more evenly contested rivalry, especially in white-ball cricket.
BAN vs SL Pitch Report: Sheikh Zayed Stadium
The pitch at the Sheikh Zayed Stadium is expected to be a balanced one, offering something for both batters and bowlers. The initial overs will see the ball coming onto the bat nicely, allowing for good stroke play. However, as the game progresses, the surface is likely to slow down, bringing the spinners into play. The spinners, with their variations, could be the key to controlling the run flow in the middle overs.
With the match being played under lights, dew could be a significant factor in the latter half of the game, making it easier for the team batting second to chase down a target. Therefore, the captain winning the toss might be inclined to field first.
BAN vs SL Weather Report
The weather in Abu Dhabi on Saturday is expected to be hot and humid, typical of the region. There is no threat of rain, so a full, uninterrupted match is on the cards. The temperature is expected to be in the high 30s (Celsius) during the day and will cool down slightly in the evening. The humidity levels will be a challenge for the players, and their fitness will be tested.
BAN vs SL Squads
Bangladesh (BAN): Mustafizur Rahman, Soumya Sarkar, Mohammad Saifuddin, Taskin Ahmed, Saif Hassan, Mahedi Hasan, Hasan Mahmud, Liton Das (WK)(C), Nasum Ahmed, Shoriful Islam, Mehidy Hasan Miraz, Nurul-Hasan (WK), Shamim Patwari, Mohammad Parvez Hossain-Emon, Rishad Hossain, Towhid Hridoy, Tanvir Islam, Jaker Ali (WK), Tanzid Hasan, Tanzim Sakib
Sri Lanka (SL): Dasun Shanaka, Kusal Perera (WK), Wanindu Hasaranga, Dinesh Chandimal, Kusal Mendis (WK), Asitha Fernando, Dushmantha Chameera, Kamindu Mendis, Pathum Nissanka, Chamika Karunaratne, Binura Fernando, Avishka Fernando, Sadeera Samarawickrama (WK), Charith Asalanka (C), Maheesh Theekshana, Kamil Mishara, Jeffrey Vandersay, Nuwan Thushara, Janith Liyanage, Nuwanidu Fernando, Matheesha Pathirana, Dunith Wellalage, Dilshan Madushanka, Eshan Malinga, Nishan Madushka (WK), Vishen Halambage
BAN vs SL Probable Playing11
Bangladesh (BAN): Liton Das (c & wk), Tanzid Hasan, Towhid Hridoy, Soumya Sarkar, Mehidy Hasan Miraz, Shamim Patwari, Mahedi Hasan, Taskin Ahmed, Mustafizur Rahman, Shoriful Islam, Nasum Ahmed.
Sri Lanka (SL): Pathum Nissanka, Kusal Mendis (wk), Sadeera Samarawickrama, Charith Asalanka (c), Kamindu Mendis, Dasun Shanaka, Wanindu Hasaranga, Chamika Karunaratne, Maheesh Theekshana, Dushmantha Chameera, Matheesha Pathirana.
BAN vs SL Match Prediction
This is a tough match to call, with both teams possessing the firepower to outplay the other on their day. Sri Lanka’s strength lies in their well-rounded bowling attack, with the spin duo of Wanindu Hasaranga and Maheesh Theekshana capable of turning the game on its head. Their batting has depth with the likes of Pathum Nissanka, Kusal Mendis, and the explosive Charith Asalanka.
Bangladesh, on the other hand, will rely on their experienced campaigners like Liton Das and Mustafizur Rahman. The emergence of young talents like Towhid Hridoy has added a new dimension to their batting. Their pace attack, led by Taskin Ahmed and Shoriful Islam, will be crucial in the initial overs.
Considering the conditions in Abu Dhabi, which are likely to favor the spinners as the game progresses, Sri Lanka’s potent spin attack gives them a slight edge. However, if the Bangladeshi batters can navigate the spin threat effectively and their bowlers can strike at crucial moments, they are more than capable of pulling off a victory.
Prediction: A close contest is on the cards, with Sri Lanka having a marginal advantage due to their spin bowling prowess.
