Bangladesh beats Sri Lanka to become group champions

Bangladesh U-19 team secured a place in the semi-finals of the ongoing Youth Asia Cup by winning the first two matches of the group stage. Azizul Hakim Tamim's team defeated Sri Lanka U-19 team in the last group match and entered the last four as group champions. Bangladesh's opponent in the semi-finals is the runner-up of the other group, Pakistan U-19 team.

After losing the toss in Dubai, Bangladesh elected to bat first and scored 225 runs in 46 overs and 3 balls. Jawad Abrar scored the highest 49 runs for the team. In reply, Sri Lanka was all out for 181 runs in 49 overs while chasing the target of 226 runs.

Although Sri Lanka started well in the chase, they quickly lost their rhythm after Dhimanta Mahawithana and Viran Chamuditha broke the opening partnership of 26 runs. When Biran returned with 12 runs, Bangladesh took control of the match by taking wickets one after another. The Sri Lankans lost 4 wickets before the team reached 50 runs under pressure from the spinners. Chamika Henathigala and Adam Hilmi tried to build resistance in the middle order but could not play a big innings.

Iqbal Hossain Emon and Shahriar Ahmed took three wickets each in Bangladesh's bowling. In addition, Samiun Bashir Ratul took two wickets.

Earlier, Jawad Abrar and Rifat Baig gave a great start for Bangladesh in the batting. The opening partnership of 84 runs was broken by Jawad's dismissal for 49 runs. Despite getting a strong foundation, a big collection could not be built due to the failure of the subsequent batters.