Sri Lanka vs Bangladesh, 5th Match, Group B - Live Cricket Score, Commentary

Hasaranga strikes

He hardly disappoints!! He gets the crucial wicket of Mehidy now with a googly to castle the batsman as he misses the slog completely. But Mehidy has done his job, he has given his side a great platform. A wicket immediately after the powerplay always halts momentum. Let's see what Bangladesh come up with.

Mehidy on fire

This is superb batting. Bangladesh have found the ideal to guy to open with. Mehidy took on Theekshana for a six and then followed it up with a ramp shot for another six against Asitha's pace. He has raced to 32 off 20.

Early wicket

Not a happy return to the XI for Sabbir. He attempts a pull against Asitha and gets only a top edge through to the keeper. Shakib Al Hasan is in early and attempts a hoick first ball. Looks like there has definitely been a discussion on intent.

New opening combo

Quite an interesting development. Sabbir was prepared to be a finisher but here he is opening the innings and his opening partner is Mehidy Hasan Miraz. Looks like he has been sent in as a pinch-hitter.

Toss -Sri Lanka opt to bowl

Smart choice from the Sri Lankans as they opt to chase in this vital clash. Knowing what's in front of you can prove to be vital. But the big news is actually from the Bangladesh camp. They have made quite a few changes starting with Sabbir Rahman. He is finally back in the XI. Ebadot Hossain and Mehidy Hasan Miraz are in as well. They have dropped their openers from the last game. It will be interesting to see who they open with tonight. They did contemplate using Mushfiqur in that role before the tournament.

Teams:

Bangladesh (Playing XI): Sabbir Rahman, Mosaddek Hossain, Shakib Al Hasan(c), Mushfiqur Rahim(w), Afif Hossain, Mahmudullah, Mosaddek Hossain, Mahedi Hasan, Taskin Ahmed, Mehidy Hasan Miraz, Mustafizur Rahman, Ebadot Hossain

Sri Lanka (Playing XI): Pathum Nissanka, Kusal Mendis(w), Charith Asalanka, Danushka Gunathilaka, Bhanuka Rajapaksa, Wanindu Hasaranga, Dasun Shanaka(c), Chamika Karunaratne, Maheesh Theekshana, Dilshan Madushanka, Asitha Fernando

Build up

Two teams from Asia taking shots at each other before a game is not that common in this sport. However, Sri Lanka and Bangladesh have done just that which in turn has added some extra spice to this contest. After being humbled by Afghanistan in the opening game, the Sri Lankan skipper opined that Bangladesh will be an easier challenge comparatively. Dasun Shanaka mentioned that apart from Shakib Al Hasan and Mustafizur Rahman, Bangladesh do not have bowlers who could threaten his side. That was indeed quite a statement to make especially after your side got bowled out for 105 in the first game.

In reply, Khaled Mahmud had a go at the Sri Lankan attack by stating they do not have any world class bowler in their lineup. This pre-match chatter will definitely ensure the fans of both teams are pumped up for this clash. But the bigger picture for these two sides is obviously their future in this tournament. Whoever loses tonight will have to pack their bags since Afghanistan have already sealed their place in the Super Four from their group.

Both teams have issues with their batting lineup by what we have seen so far. Bangladesh's issues with the bat in this format in particular have existed for quite some time. They failed to come out of their rut against Afghanistan but will hope to fare better tonight. Which one of these two sides will come out on top in this knockout clash? We will find out over the next few hours. Welcome to the live blog for this crucial Asia Cup encounter.