Bangladesh 'A' team's Mission Ends in Failure at the Emerging Asia Cup

After losing to Afghanistan 'A' and Sri Lanka 'A', Bangladesh 'A' has been eliminated from the group stage of the ongoing Emerging Asia Cup. Despite being labeled as an "Emerging" team, 8 players from the national team were included in this squad. In terms of experience and talent, Bangladesh was ahead in the tournament. However, apart from a single win against Hong Kong, the Tigers have nothing to show for their efforts.

On Tuesday, Sri Lanka 'A' won the toss and batted first at the Al Amerat Cricket Ground, scoring 161 runs for 7 wickets in 20 overs. In response, Bangladesh 'A' fell short, managing 142 for 7 wickets in 20 overs.

Batting first, Sri Lanka 'A' got a solid start from their opening pair, who added 40 runs. Lahiru Udara contributed 35 runs off 21 balls. After losing 3 wickets at 81 runs, Shahan Arachchige and Pavan Ratnayake formed a 64-run partnership in 42 balls for the fourth wicket. Shahan scored 30 runs, while Pavan was dismissed for 42.

For Bangladesh 'A', Ripon Mondol and Rejaur Rahman Raja took 2 wickets each.

Chasing 162, Bangladesh's openers Saif Hassan and Parvez Hossain Emon gave a good start. The Emerging Tigers scored 59 runs in the powerplay. Saif retired hurt after scoring 29 runs, while Emon played a quickfire 24 off 10 balls.

After the opening stand was broken, Bangladesh's innings lost momentum. Naim Sheikh struggled, scoring just 8 runs off 15 balls, disrupting the team's momentum. Regular national team player Towhid Hridoy managed only 12 runs from 13 balls. Captain Akbar Ali, Shamim Patwari, and Mahfuzur Rahman Rabbi were all dismissed for single digits.

With the loss of regular wickets, the match remained in Sri Lanka's control. At one point, Abu Hider Rony's batting provided a glimmer of hope for Bangladesh, but his 38 runs off 25 balls only reduced the margin of defeat.

Dushan Hemantha of Sri Lanka 'A' was named Player of the Match for his 3-wicket haul.