The much-anticipated clash between Sri Lanka and Bangladesh marks the commencement of their Asia Cup 2023 journey. Both teams, grappling with injuries and seeking to transcend recent lackluster ODI performances, are poised to kick-start their campaign on a victorious note.

Sri Lanka, the reigning Asia Cup champions from the 2022 T20 edition, have been plagued by a series of setbacks leading up to this edition. Niggling injuries and COVID-19 infections have disrupted their squad announcement. Wanindu Hasaranga, Dushmantha Chameera, Lahiru Kumara, and Dilshan Madhushanka are sidelined due to injuries, while Kusal Perera, recovering from a COVID-19 infection, remains uncertain. The team’s ODI performance in 2023 has also left much to be desired, with defeats to India (0-3) and New Zealand (0-2) overshadowing their triumphs.

Sri Lanka’s batting fortunes will rely heavily on the consistent form of Pathum Nissanka, Dimuth Karunaratne, and Charith Asalanka – the standout performers in 2023. Skipper Dasun Shanaka’s contribution will be pivotal, especially after his century against India. The bowling unit, sans several key figures, will look to Maheesh Theekshana and Kasun Rajitha for a significant impact.

Bangladesh, too, faces challenges with key players like Tamim Iqbal, Ebadot Hossain, and Litton Das sidelined due to injuries. However, the spotlight is on their individual contributors. Captain Shakib Al Hasan, Mushfiqur Rahim, Najmul Hossain Shanto, and Towhid Hridoy have displayed their prowess with the bat. The bowling trio of Mustafizur Rahman, Shoriful Islam, and Taskin Ahmed have shone on occasions but will need to step up against formidable opponents.

As the two teams collide, their sights are set on a strategic victory, knowing that a triumph in this encounter holds immense importance. Both Bangladesh and Sri Lanka are aware of the impending challenge against Afghanistan in their next Group B fixtures. Furthermore, the unpredictable factor of net run rate could come into play, given weather forecasts predicting rain in the region.

Dasun Shanaka (captain), Pathum Nissanka, Dimuth Karunaratne, Kusal Janith Perera, Kusal Mendis (vc), Charith Asalanka, Dhananjaya de Silva, Sadeera Samarawickrama, Maheesh Theekshana, Dunith Wellalage, Matheesha Pathirana, Kasun Rajitha, Dushan Hemantha, Binura Fernando, Pramod Madushan