Bangladesh vs Sri Lanka Prediction: The teams will be itching to go and show their worth in the 50-over cricket

Bangladesh will be facing off against Sri Lanka in the second game of the Asia Cup at Pallekele International Cricket Stadium. The teams will be itching to go and show their worth in the 50-over cricket. Who will win this game?

Bangladesh has transformed from being considered minnows to a competitive side. They have shown significant improvement over the past few years, even managing to defeat stronger teams like England and India in recent months. However, their performance in the last Asia Cup, particularly the T20 format, led to their elimination at the group stage.

Taking charge of the team from Tamim Iqbal, Shakib Al-Hasan steps into the role of captain. This marks his return to leading the ODI team for the first time since 2017. Being a premier all-rounder in the ODI format, he assumes a pivotal role for the team. Tanzid Ahmed is set to make his debut in this tournament, filling in for the injured Tamim Iqbal.

He will be supported by seasoned players like Najmul Hossain Shanto, Litton Das, and Mushfiqur Rahim. In recent months, Shamim Hossain, Mohammad Naim, and Towhid Hridoy have shown their prowess in white-ball cricket, securing their positions in the squad.

Bangladesh's batting might not be explosive and could face challenges in high-scoring venues. However, they excel when the conditions offer a bit of assistance to the bowlers, especially when the ball stays low.

Shifting to the bowling department, Mahedi Hasan Miraz strengthens the spin contingent and adds depth to the batting order. The pace attack comprises Mustafizur Rahman, Taskin Ahmed, Shoriful Islam, and Hasan Mahmud. This is an aspect where Bangladesh has notably progressed. Their bowlers now offer more wicket-taking options through the middle overs, rather than simply focusing on containment.

The unexpected injury to Ebadot Hossain has disrupted Bangladesh's plans, leading to his replacement with the uncapped Tanzim Hasan.

Shakib Al Hasan (c), Mohammad Naim, Litton Das, Najmul Hossain Shanto, Towhid Hridoy, Mushfiqur Rahim (wk), Afif Hossain, Mehidy Hasan Miraz, Shoriful Islam, Hasan Mahmud, Ebadot Hossain, Mustafizur Rahman

Sri Lanka's recent form, particularly in the 50-over format, has been less than stellar. They found themselves in the difficult position of having to go through the Qualifiers to secure a spot in the upcoming ODI World Cup. Nonetheless, the team displayed impressive prowess by remaining unbeaten throughout the tournament and securing a berth in the marquee event.

A significant challenge for Sri Lanka has been the prevalence of injuries among many of its players. With the ODI World Cup on the horizon, the selectors have faced the tough task of making decisions, resulting in the exclusion of several key players from the Asia Cup squad.

Among those sidelined are Wanindu Hasaranga, Lahiru Kumara, Dilshan Madushanka, and Dushmantha Chameera. Fortunately, the batting lineup has not been as severely affected, with the anticipated names finding their place in the squad.

Dimuth Karunaratne, Kusal Mendis, Kusal Perera, and Sadeera Samarawickrama are set to lead in the top and middle order. The inclusion of all-rounders Dasun Shanaka, Dhananjaya De Silva, and Charith Asalanka adds depth to the batting unit.

Regarding the seam attack, Matheesha Pathirana and Kasun Rajitha are likely to kick off proceedings with the new ball. In the spin department, Maheesh Theekshana will take the lead, supported by Dunith Wellalage and Dushan Hemantha.

Sri Lanka enjoys the home advantage in the Asia Cup 2023, a factor that could work in their favour. Their rivalry with Bangladesh has intensified in recent years, leaving no room for complacency in this match. The Sri Lankan batting lineup seems well-suited to capitalize on familiar conditions, although one of the top-order batsmen will need to deliver a significant performance.

However, the bowling department appears to be the weaker link and lacks the desired depth and preparation.

Dasun Shanaka (c), Pathum Nissanka, Dimuth Karunaratne, Kusal Mendis (wk), Sadeera Samarawickrama, Charith Asalanka, Dhananjaya de Silva, Dunith Wellalage, Maheesh Theekshana, Kasun Rajitha, Matheesha Pathirana

The Pallekele pitch offers a fair balance between batsmen and bowlers, allowing both to exhibit their skills effectively. Historically, the average first-inning score at this venue hovers around 250, but teams batting first will aim to post a more substantial total, preferably around 280 runs. The pitch leans towards the drier side, indicating that spinners can anticipate some degree of turn. Weather conditions are projected to be overcast, raising the likelihood of rain-induced interruptions during the match. Although Sri Lanka enters this match as the favoured team as indicated by several betting platforms, we anticipate a closely contested match due to the absence of key players from the host team. However, Bangladesh, often underestimated, is not to be taken lightly and is poised to present a strong challenge. Bet on Sri Lanka to win a low scoring game.