Bangladesh Top Group B After Beating Sri Lanka; Semi-Final Line-Up Confirmed

Bangladesh Under-19s secured top spot in Group B of the Under-19 Asia Cup with a convincing 39-run victory over Sri Lanka in Dubai, setting up a semi-final clash against Pakistan. India, meanwhile, will face Sri Lanka in the other semi-final.

Bangladesh’s triumph was built on a solid batting performance after they were asked to set a target. Openers Zawad Abrar and Rifat Beg laid a strong foundation with an 84-run partnership, giving the innings early momentum. Captain Azizul Hakim and Kalam Siddiki then added 53 runs for the third wicket, helping Bangladesh reach a commanding position at 163 for 3.

However, Sri Lanka fought back through offspinner Kavija Gamage, who triggered a collapse by taking 4 for 38. Bangladesh lost their remaining seven wickets for just 62 runs and were eventually bowled out for 225 in 46.3 overs. Abrar top-scored with 49, while Beg contributed a useful 36.

In response, Sri Lanka never fully recovered from a poor start. They slipped to 38 for 3 inside the first 14 overs, placing immediate pressure on the chase. Chamika Heenatigala offered brief resistance with a top score of 41, but regular wickets at the other end prevented Sri Lanka from building any sustained partnerships.

Bangladesh’s bowlers maintained tight control throughout the innings, with Iqbal Hossain Emon claiming 3 for 37 and Shahriar Ahmed returning figures of 3 for 27. Sri Lanka were reduced to 126 for 8, effectively ending any hopes of a comeback, before being dismissed for 186 despite some late hitting from Aadham Hilmy.

With the group stage now complete, the semi-final line-up has been confirmed. India will take on Sri Lanka in the first semi-final, while Bangladesh will face Pakistan in the second. Both matches are scheduled to be played in Dubai on Friday, December 19.