Sri Lankan players had the last laugh at the end of high-voltage must-win Asia Cup 2022 clash against Bangladesh. In a roller coaster encounter, Sri Lanka got over the line in the final over as their no. 10 batter Asitha Fernando’s lusty blows caught unorganized Bangladesh off-guard. After the win, all-rounder Chamika Karunaratne did the infamous ‘Naagin Dance’ in the dressing room.
The clashes between Bangladesh and Sri Lanka have not been dull of late. It dates back to Nidahas Trophy 2018 when Bangladesh beat Sri Lanka in the must-win clash of the tri-series to reach the final against India. The impact on Sri Lankan fans was such that they packed the stadium on the final and backed India to win. Dinesh Karthik’s last-ball six gave them the satisfaction to mock the Bangladesh cricketers and their fans.
Four years later, Sri Lanka had their revenge in a closely-fought contest where the hosts created history at Dubai International Cricket Stadium. The successful run chase of 184/8 is the highest in UAE and Sri Lanka’s second best.
Before showing off his Naagin dance skills, Karunaratne scored crucial 16 runs from 10 deliveries. Unfortunately, the all-rounder got run out in the penultimate over by Bangladesh skipper Shakib Al Hasan.
Earlier, he got the wickets of wicketkeeper-batter Mushfiqur Rahim and Mahedi Hasan. He conceded 32 runs in his quota of four overs.
Before the game, there was a war of words from both sides. Skipper Shanaka had said that Bangladesh have just two world-class bowlers in Shakib and Mustafizur Rahman. In reply, Bangladesh coach said that Sri Lanka have none.
Sri Lanka will now face Afghanistan in their first Super 4 clash. The Shanaka-led side got bundled out for 105 in the group stage clash against Afghanistan as their top-order collapsed. The massive eight-wicket loss also affected their net run rate (NRR) which will come into play in the latter stages of the tournament.
