Asia Cup 2022: T20 cricket is the most followed format of the game because it gives more thrills and close matches. And we have seen many close games in the history of cricket. But the match between Sri Lanka and Bangladesh on Thursday was certainly among the closest matches one could see.
Both teams gave their everything to win this knock-out game. However, in the end, Sri Lanka came out victorious and pulled off a great chase. Thus, they became the second team from Group B to qualify for the “Super Four” stage after Afghanistan.
On the other hand, Bangladesh were kicked out of the tournament after the loss. The match was in the hands of Shakib al Hasan and his men till 18 overs. But the final two overs from Ebadot Hossain and Mahedi Hasan brought Sri Lanka into the chase and they won the match by two wickets.
Both bowlers bowled no-balls at the wrong time, which resulted in a couple of free-hits and the Sri Lankan batters used them to full effect. As a result, Sri Lanka registered their second highest chase and they made 184/8 in 19.2 overs.
As soon as they won the match, all the Sri Lankan players looked pumped up. All-rounder Chamika Karunaratne couldn’t control himself and did the infamous “Naagin Dance” celebration.
Asia Cup 2022: Chamika Karunaratne did the “Naagin Dance” – Watch
Not only Karunaratne, but even the Sri Lankan fans were seen doing the “Naagin Dance” in the stands to poke fun at Bangladesh. Notably, this “Naagin Dance” celebration occurred during the 2018 Nidhas Trophy, when Bangladesh defeated Sri Lanka. And it was veteran wicket-keeper Mushfiqur Rahim who did this celebration to mock Sri Lanka’s loss. After that, in another match in the same tournament, Bangladesh defeated the islanders and they did the “Naagin Celebration” in a bad way.
Speaking of the game, Dasun Shanaka won the toss and put the Shakib-led team to bat first. They did a really good job and scored a competitive total of 183/7 in their 20 overs. Afif Hossain (39 off 22), Mehidy Hasan Miraz (38 off 26) and Mosaddek Hossain (24 off 9) played some crucial innings.
Chasing the target, Sri Lanka got a good start. Opener Kusal Mendis made 60 off 37 balls. Skipper Shanaka scored 45 off 33 balls in the end. Asitha Fernando hit two boundaries and made 10* off three balls to seal the deal for his team. Now the Sri Lankan team will play Afghanistan in the Super Four stage of the Asia Cup 2022 on Saturday at Sharjah.
Which teams have qualified for the “Super Four” in the Asia Cup 2022?
India, Afganisthan and Sri Lanka have qualified for the “Super Four” in the Asia Cup 2022.
When India and Pakistan will play in the Asia Cup?
India and Pakistan will play on Sunday, September 4 in the Super Four stage of the tournament.
Who will win the Asia Cup 2022?
As per the current form, India are the clear favorites to win the tournament.
Who have won the most Asia Cup in history?
India has won it seven times, Sri Lanka has five and Pakistan has won the tournament two times.