Wellalage returns for Sri Lanka’s Asia Cup 2025 Clash vs Bangladesh

Sri Lanka will look to extend their unbeaten run into the Super Four when they face Bangladesh in the Asia Cup 2025 opener on Saturday (20).

Charith Asalanka’s side topped Group B with three wins, including a six-wicket victory over Bangladesh. Pathum Nissanka has been their batting mainstay with 124 runs, while Kusal Mendis found form with a 74 against Afghanistan. However, Sri Lanka’s fragile middle order remains a concern.

On the bowling front, Nuwan Thushara and Dushmantha Chameera have impressed with the new ball, while Wanindu Hasaranga has provided control in the middle overs.

The Islanders also receive a boost with the return of all-rounder Dunith Wellalage, who has rejoined the squad following his father’s passing.

Bangladesh, who advanced only after Sri Lanka’s win over Afghanistan, have struggled with inconsistency. Litton Das leads their run chart with 96 runs, but the rest of the batting unit has lacked stability. Dropped catches and erratic bowling have compounded their problems. Mustafizur Rahman and Taskin Ahmed will need to deliver if Bangladesh are to upset the Lankans.

• Bangladesh vs Sri Lanka: Squads

Bangladesh: Litton Das (c), Tanzid Hasan, Parvez Hossain Emon, Saif Hassan, Tawhid Hridoy, Jaker Ali Anik, Shamim Hossain, Quazi Nurul Hasan Sohan, Shak Mahedi Hasan, Rishad Hossain, Nasum Ahmed, Mustafizur Rahman, Tanzim Hasan Sakib, Taskin Ahmed, Shoriful Islam, Shaif Uddin.

Sri Lanka: Charith Asalanka (c), Pathum Nissanka, Kusal Mendis, Kusal Perera, Nuwanidu Fernando, Kamindu Mendis, Kamil Mishara, Dasun Shanaka, Wanindu Hasaranga, Dunith Wellalage, Chamika Karunaratne, Maheesh Theekshana, Dushmantha Chameera, Binura Fernando, Nuwan Thushara, Matheesha Pathirana.