Bangladesh defeated Sri Lanka by four wickets in the opening match of the Asia Cup T20 Super Four stage, successfully chasing down a target of 169 at Dubai Stadium on Saturday.

Batting first, Sri Lanka posted 168 for seven in their allotted 20 overs.

Captain Dasun Shanaka led from the front with a blistering unbeaten 64 off 37 balls, smashing three fours and six sixes.

Kusal Mendis added 34, while Pathum Nissanka contributed 22, but the rest of the batting lineup failed to make a major impact.

Bangladesh’s bowling attack was spearheaded by Mustafizur Rahman, who returned impressive figures of 3 for 20 in his four overs.

Mehidy Hasan picked up two wickets, while Taskin Ahmed chipped in with one.

Winning the toss, Bangladesh skipper Litton Das opted to bowl first, explaining that teams batting second usually succeed on this surface. He also revealed that two changes were made to strengthen the lineup.

Sri Lanka’s captain Charith Asalanka admitted he would have chosen to field first as well, describing the pitch as dry and old but noting that batting order would not matter much.

He expressed confidence in his young players, praising their growing contributions to the side.