Sabbir Rahman’s career-best 80 propelled Bangladesh to a 23-run victory over shaky Sri Lanka in the fifth match of the Asia Cup, in Dhaka.
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Rahman’s explosive 54-ball innings, which included 10 fours and three sixes, ensured the Tigers recovered from losing both openers in the first two overs.
Shakib Al Hasan scored 32 to give Rahman useful support as they combined for an 82-run stand for the fourth wicket from 67 balls. With Lasith Malinga still a doubtful starter for Sri Lanka, the attack would comprise skipper Angelo Mathews, Nuwan Kulasekara, Dushmantha Chameera and Rangana Herath, who do not possess the pace and swing that Amir troubled India’s batsmen with.
Dinesh Chandimal (37) and Shehan Jayasuriya (26) steered Sri Lanka to 76-1 in reply before Shakib Al Hasan (2-21) choked the chase, Sri Lanka sliding to 124-8.
Mirpur: Mahmudullah Riyadh produced an all-round effort to guide hosts Bangladesh to a comprehensive 51-run win against United Arab Emirates in the Asia Cup T20 tournament, here on Friday.
In the press conference after the 23-run victory, Sabbir said the thought of reaching a century had not crossed his mind. While India’s current team is well-settled, their last two league matches against Sri Lanka and UAE will give them the flawless chance to test out their bench strength.
While lavishing praise on India’s improved death bowling, Ashwin said, “It’s very good if you can punch as a group”.
Bangladesh bowlers clawed back with four wickets in just 16 runs, including the scalps of Chandimal and Jayasuirya, to turn the match.
India’s wins at the 2016 edition have come against Bangladesh and Pakistan, the latter after they bowled their rivals out for just 83.
Angelo Mathews, who had led the side in Malinga’s absence against Bangladesh, too had said after the match on Sunday that he would be a doubtful starter against India.
Skipper Mashrafe Mortaza kept three overs of his best bowler at the back end which proved to be really useful.
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Bangladesh’s batting had plenty in common with Sri Lanka’s effort on Thursday.
