BAN vs SL, Asia Cup 2023: Sadeera Samarawickrama, Charith Asalanka shine as Sri Lanka beat Bangladesh by 5 wickets

Charith Asalanka and Sadeera Samarawickrama showcased their batting prowess, both scoring impressive fifties, as Sri Lanka emerged victorious against Bangladesh in their inaugural Asia Cup 2023 match. The Sri Lankan team effortlessly chased down a meager total of 165 runs in just 39 overs at the Pallekele stadium.

Bangladesh, on the other hand, struggled to make an impact with the bat, managing a mere 164 runs before being dismissed. 

Sri Lanka celebrates a victorious start to the group stage with a comfortable 5-wicket win! #AsiaCup2023 #SLvBAN pic.twitter.com/gAmg41kql6

— Sri Lanka Cricket  (@OfficialSLC) August 31, 2023

Nazmul Hossain Shanto stood as the sole warrior for the visitors, displaying resilience with his gritty knock of 89 runs as the team around him collapsed like dominoes with 7 batters not even crossing single digits.

Sri Lanka's young paceman, Matheesha Pathirana, proved to be the standout performer with an impressive four-wicket haul. Maheesh Theekshana contributed with two wickets, while Dhananjaya de Silva, Dunith Wellalage, and Dasun Shanaka each claimed one wicket.

Prior to the match, Bangladesh captain Shakib Al Hasan won the toss and elected to bat first.

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