Bangladesh stormed into the Under-19 Asia Cup semi-finals as Group B toppers, beating Sri Lanka by 39 runs in Dubai with a commanding all-round performance.
Put in to bat, Bangladesh were powered by a strong start from Zawad Abrar (49) and Rifat Beg (36), whose 84-run opening stand set the platform. Captain Azizul Hakim and Kalam Siddiki then added 53 for the third wicket before a late collapse saw Bangladesh slip from 163 for 3 to 225 all out, with Kavija Gamage claiming 4 for 38.
Sri Lanka never found rhythm in the chase and were reduced to 38 for 3 inside 14 overs as Bangladesh’s bowlers applied early pressure. Chamika Heenatigala’s 41 offered brief resistance, but wickets kept falling regularly, leaving Sri Lanka struggling at 126 for 8.
Despite some late blows from Aadham Hilmy, Sri Lanka were eventually bowled out for 186. Iqbal Hossain Emon (3 for 37) and Shahriar Ahmed (3 for 27) led the bowling effort to complete a dominant win.
The result sets up a blockbuster semi-final line-up, with India facing Sri Lanka, while Bangladesh take on Pakistan. Both matches will be played on Friday, December 19, in Dubai.
