Sheikh Zayed Stadium, Abu Dhabi – September 13, 2025, sets the stage for a Group B blockbuster as six-time champions Sri Lanka kick off their Asia Cup campaign against a Bangladesh side brimming with confidence after a smooth opening win. With Afghanistan also lurking in the “group of death,” both sides know victory here could be decisive in the Super Four race.
Big Picture: Rivalry Renewed Under Pressure
Over the past decade, Bangladesh and Sri Lanka have split their T20I battles almost evenly – eight wins apiece in 16 meetings. But in recent years, the Tigers have had the upper hand, including a T20 World Cup win in Dallas last year and a 2-1 series triumph in Colombo earlier this summer.
Now, in Abu Dhabi’s furnace-like conditions, Sri Lanka lean on their pedigree and the return of talisman Wanindu Hasaranga, while Bangladesh hope Litton Das and Towhid Hridoy continue their rich form to tilt momentum their way.
Bangladesh’s Strong Start
Bangladesh began their Asia Cup 2025 journey with a composed seven-wicket win over Hong Kong. Litton Das led from the front with a half-century, while Rishad Hossain’s leg-spin added a vital edge in the middle overs.
Taskin Ahmed and Mustafizur Rahman provided bite with the new ball, but head coach Chandika Hathurusingha admitted his side “left a few runs out there” with the ball. Against Sri Lanka’s stronger batting lineup, execution in powerplay and death overs will be crucial.
Sri Lanka’s Campaign Begins
Charith Asalanka, captaining Sri Lanka, declared confidently on the eve of the match: “We are defending champions, and that won’t change our mindset.” His side welcome back Wanindu Hasaranga, whose spin partnership with Maheesh Theekshana could be decisive on Abu Dhabi’s slow surface.
Pathum Nissanka, who has been in sparkling T20 form this year, and Kusal Mendis provide top-order stability, while Dushmantha Chameera’s pace is expected to spearhead the attack. Sri Lanka may lean on spin dominance, but their balance across departments remains their biggest strength.
Key Player Battles
- Litton Das vs Dushmantha Chameera – Bangladesh’s skipper will face Sri Lanka’s strike pacer early; whoever wins this duel sets the tone.
- Rishad Hossain vs Wanindu Hasaranga – Young leggie vs master of spin: Rishad impressed vs Hong Kong, but Hasaranga’s return ups the stakes.
- Towhid Hridoy vs Theekshana – Hridoy’s ability to play spin calmly could prove vital in middle overs.
Head-To-Head Record
- Matches: 20
- Sri Lanka wins: 12
- Bangladesh wins: 8
Notably, Bangladesh have not beaten Sri Lanka in an Asia Cup clash since 2018.
Pitch & Weather Report – Abu Dhabi
The Sheikh Zayed Stadium pitch is expected to be dry with some cracks, offering grip for spinners but overall decent for batting. Dew could make chasing easier under lights. Weather will be hot (around 35°C) with little chance of rain.
Stats & Milestones
- Litton Das needs 56 runs to become Bangladesh’s all-time leading T20I run-scorer.
- Pathum Nissanka is just 50 away from 2000 T20I runs, potentially the fastest Sri Lankan to the mark.
- Wanindu Hasaranga is five wickets away from entering the top 10 Asia Cup wicket-takers.
Probable Playing XIs
Bangladesh: Litton Das (c & wk), Tanzid Hasan, Parvez Hossain Emon, Towhid Hridoy, Jaker Ali, Shamim Hossain, Mahedi Hasan, Rishad Hossain, Taskin Ahmed, Mustafizur Rahman, Tanzim Hasan Sakib
Sri Lanka: Pathum Nissanka, Kusal Mendis (wk), Kusal Perera, Charith Asalanka (c), Kamindu Mendis, Dasun Shanaka, Wanindu Hasaranga, Maheesh Theekshana, Dushmantha Chameera, Binura Fernando, Nuwan Thushara
Prediction: Too Close To Call
Sri Lanka’s pedigree and Hasaranga’s return give them the edge on paper, but Bangladesh’s recent record and confidence tilt the balance. Expect a tight contest decided by how well Bangladesh handle Sri Lanka’s spin trio.
📌 Slight edge: Sri Lanka, but Bangladesh could well spring another statement win.
