The match will be played at Grand Prairie Stadium, Dallas
PHOTO: AFP
Sri Lanka and Bangladesh are set to meet in an exciting T20 World Cup 2024 match at Grand Prairie Stadium in Dallas on Saturday, June 8, with the game kicking off at 5:30 AM PST.This encounter marks the first match for Bangladesh in the group stage, while Sri Lanka will be looking to bounce back after a tough loss in their previous game.
Sri Lanka enters this match on the back foot after a disappointing performance against South Africa in their opener, where they were bowled out for a mere 77 runs. The Proteas easily chased down the target, leaving the Lankans eager to redeem themselves in this crucial fixture.
Despite the recent setback, Sri Lanka boasts a strong track record against Bangladesh in T20Is, having won 11 out of the 16 matches played between the two teams. They also clinched a T20I series victory against Bangladesh earlier this year, which will undoubtedly boost their confidence going into this game.
However, the Sri Lankan squad has raised concerns about the tournament's scheduling, as they will be playing their group stage matches across different venues, causing significant travel for the team. The Lankans have expressed their dissatisfaction with the logistical demands, which they feel could impact their performance.
Bangladesh will be kicking off their T20 World Cup campaign against Sri Lanka. Placed in Group D alongside Sri Lanka, South Africa, Netherlands, and Nepal, the Bangladeshi team is eager to make a strong start.
Led by Najmul Hossain Shanto, Bangladesh has a mix of experienced players and young talents. Key figures like Shakib Al Hasan and Mahmudullah bring a wealth of experience and will play pivotal roles in guiding the team through the tournament. However, the team comes into this match on the back of a loss in their warm-up game against India, where they struggled to find their rhythm.
The Tigers are determined to put that behind them and start their World Cup campaign on a high note. The first game of a tournament is always crucial, and a win against Sri Lanka would set a positive tone for the rest of their campaign.
Squads:
Bangladesh: Najmul Hossain Shanto (c), Taskin Ahmed, Litton Das, Soumya Sarkar, Tanzid Hasan Tamim, Shakib Al Hasan, Tawhid Hridoy, Mahmud Ullah Riyad, Jaker Ali Anik, Tanvir Islam, Shak Mahedi Hasan, Rishad Hossain, Mustafizur Rahman, Shoriful Islam, Tanzim Hasan Sakib. Travelling reserves: Afif Hossain, Hasan Mahmud
Sri Lanka: Wanindu Hasaranga (c), Charith Asalanka, Kusal Mendis, Pathum Nissanka, Kamindu Mendis, Sadeera Samarawickrama, Angelo Mathews, Dasun Shanaka, Dhananjaya De Silva, Maheesh Theekshana, Dunith Wellalage, Dushmantha Chameera, Nuwan Thushara, Matheesha Pathirana, Dilshan Madushanka. Travelling Reserves: Asitha Fernando, Vijayakanth Viyaskanth, Bhanuka Rajapaksa, Janith Liyanage.