Doha, Qatar – Sri Lanka A secured a thrilling six-run victory over Bangladesh A in the Asia Cup Rising Stars T20 Tournament yesterday at the West End Park Stadium, earning them a spot in the semi-finals. The win, fueled by a strong bowling performance from captain Dunith Wellalage, propelled Sri Lanka A into the final four alongside Bangladesh A, Pakistan Shaheens, and India A.
The match saw Bangladesh A fall short in their chase of 160, despite a late push in the final over. This result concludes the group stage of the tournament, setting the stage for the semi-final clashes scheduled for tomorrow.
Sri Lanka A Clinches Semi-Final Berth in Asia Cup Rising Stars T20
Sri Lanka A posted a competitive total of 159 for 7, built around a well-paced 69 off 49 balls from Sahan Arachchige. Arachchige’s innings included five boundaries and three sixes, and featured a crucial 52-run partnership with captain Wellalage, who contributed 23 runs. Ripon Mondol and Abu Haider were the most successful bowlers for Bangladesh A, each taking two wickets.
Bangladesh A’s reply began steadily, with Habibur Rahman Sohan scoring 27 before being dismissed lbw by Traveen Mathew. However, the middle order struggled to accelerate against tight bowling from Sri Lanka.
Wellalage Leads the Bowling Attack
Dunith Wellalage was the standout bowler for Sri Lanka A, claiming three wickets for 19 runs. He dismissed key Bangladesh batsmen Jishan Alam, Akbar Ali, and Mahidul Islam Ankon, applying significant pressure throughout their innings. Zawad Abrar added 26 runs, but the increasing required run rate proved challenging for Bangladesh.
The final over, bowled by Milan Rathnayake, was a dramatic affair. A dropped catch of Yasir Ali was followed by a six from S M Meherob and two wides, bringing Bangladesh within reach. Despite conceding two leg-byes, Rathnayake held his nerve, delivering a dot ball and then dismissing Yasir Ali lbw on the final ball of the match, sealing the victory for Sri Lanka A.
This win allowed Sri Lanka A to advance to the semi-finals, edging out Afghanistan A on net run rate. Both teams finished with four points in Group A, but Sri Lanka’s superior run rate proved decisive. The T20 format often sees matches decided on such fine margins.
Afghanistan A Defeats Hong Kong in Earlier Match
Earlier in the day, Afghanistan A defeated Hong Kong by 24 runs, defending a total of 140 for 6. Imran contributed a quick 20 off 12 balls, but early wickets from Mohammad Waheed and Mohammad slowed Afghanistan’s momentum. A 51-run stand between Rahmanullah (24 off 21) and Mohammad Ishaq (38 off 29) proved vital in reaching a modest total.
Hong Kong’s innings was disrupted by a brilliant spell of leg-spin bowling from Qais Ahmad. Ahmad took three wickets in a single over, removing Babar Hayat, Anshuman Rath, and captain Yasim Murtaza, effectively turning the tide of the match. He finished with figures of 3 for 18, supported by Faridoon Dawoodzai’s 2 for 21.
Despite a late effort from Shiv Mathur, who scored 24 off 22 balls, Hong Kong could only manage 116 for 9 in their 20 overs. This match highlighted the importance of spin bowling in the Asia Cup competition.
Looking ahead, Bangladesh A, having topped Group A, will face India A in the first semi-final tomorrow at 12:30 PM local time. Sri Lanka A will then take on the unbeaten Pakistan Shaheens at 5:30 PM. The outcomes of these matches will determine which two teams advance to the final, and the ultimate champion of the Rising Stars tournament. The performance of key players and adaptability to the conditions will be crucial factors in the remaining stages of the competition.
