Asalanka: Sri Lanka Enter Asia Cup as Defending T20 Champions

Asalanka: Sri Lanka Enter Asia Cup as Defending T20 Champions

Sri Lanka captain Charith Asalanka has reminded fans and critics alike that his side enter the 2025 Asia Cup as the defending champions — at least in the T20I format. While India were crowned champions in the 2023 edition, that tournament was played in the ODI format, and according to Asalanka, that makes a key distinction.

“The fact that we are defending champions is a really good thing mentally,” Asalanka said ahead of Sri Lanka’s opening clash against Bangladesh on Saturday. “A lot of these players played in that 2022 tournament as well, so we know what it takes. The belief is there, and that’s helping motivate the team.”

Format Matters

The Asia Cup rotates between ODI and T20I formats depending on the upcoming ICC tournament. In 2023, it was a 50-over World Cup year, hence the ODI version of the Asia Cup — won by India. This year, with the T20 World Cup 2025 around the corner, the Asia Cup returns to the shorter format. Sri Lanka last won the T20I Asia Cup in 2022, making them the reigning champions in this version of the competition.

Familiar Rivals, Familiar Conditions

Sri Lanka's first challenge will come against a well-known opponent. The two teams have faced each other extensively in 2025, across formats — three T20Is, three ODIs, and two Tests. Sri Lanka won both the ODI and Test series, but Bangladesh claimed the T20I series, a result that adds spice to this Asia Cup meeting.

Despite both teams being used to slower, spin-friendly surfaces back home, Asalanka expects a different experience in the UAE.

“When you compare this with other venues in the UAE, I think Abu Dhabi is the best pitch for batters,” he said. “Once the ball softens, it becomes easier to bat. The outfield is quick too — every batsman wants to play here.”

Boost from Hasaranga’s Return

Sri Lanka have also received a timely boost with the return of Wanindu Hasaranga, who is fit and available for selection. The star legspinner missed recent tours due to injury but is expected to play a key role in the team’s Asia Cup campaign.

Key Talking Points:

  • Sri Lanka consider themselves defending T20 Asia Cup champions from 2022.

  • The Asia Cup alternates formats depending on the next ICC event.

  • Asalanka believes the 2022 win still holds motivational value.

  • Abu Dhabi seen as a batting-friendly venue by the Sri Lankan captain.

  • Sri Lanka vs Bangladesh has become a high-frequency rivalry in 2025, especially in T20Is.

  • Hasaranga’s return strengthens Sri Lanka’s spin attack.

Sri Lanka will look to kick off their campaign with a strong statement against Bangladesh, as they chase a successful defense of their T20 crown in what promises to be a tightly contested Asia Cup 2025.