Abu dhabi, UAE - September 13, 2025 – Bangladesh and Sri Lanka face off tonight in a crucial Asia Cup 2025 Naagin Derby clash at the Sheikh Zayed Stadium in Abu Dhabi, with both teams vying for a strong position in the Super Four stage.
Bangladesh began their Asia Cup campaign with a seven-wicket victory over Hong kong,successfully chasing a target of 144 with 14 balls to spare. Litton Das top-scored with 59,supported by Towhid Hridoy’s unbeaten 35. This win improved Bangladesh’s Net Run rate to +1.001, though it remains substantially lower than Afghanistan’s +4.700. A win tonight would bolster their chances of Super Four qualification, while a loss could jeopardize their position, particularly given the potential for a three-way tie with Sri Lanka and Afghanistan based on points.
Sri Lanka enters the match with a balanced squad led by captain Charith Asalanka.The team features aggressive opening batsmen Pathum Nissanka and Kusal Mendis, alongside experienced middle-order players Dasun Shanaka and Kusal Perera. Their bowling attack includes spinners Wanindu Hasaranga, Maheesh Theekshana, and Dunith Wellalage, complemented by pace bowlers Dushmantha Chameera and Matheesha Pathirana.
The Abu Dhabi pitch is expected to favor spinners,making early scoring in the powerplay crucial. The match is scheduled to begin at 8 pm IST and will be livestreamed on the SonyLiv app and broadcast on the Sony Sports Network.
Probable Playing XIs:
Bangladesh: Parvez Hossain Emon, Tanzid Hasan Tamim, Litton Das (c & wk), Saif Hassan/Towhid Hridoy, Shamim Hossain, Jaker Ali, Mahedi Hasan, Rishad Hossain, Tanzim Hasan Sakib, Taskin Ahmed, Mustafizur Rahman
Sri Lanka: Pathum Nissanka, Kusal Mendis, Kamil Mishara, Kusal Perera, Charith Asalanka, Kamindu Mendis, Dasun Shanaka, Wanindu Hasaranga, Matheesha Pathirana, Dushmantha Fernando, Nuwan Thushara