Bangladesh Tops Group by Beating Sri Lanka, Faces Pakistan in Semi-Final

Bangladesh emerged as Group B champions in the U-19 Asia Cup, securing their spot in the semi-finals with a 39-run victory over Sri Lanka on December 17, 2025. The win came in their final group match, where they set a target of 226 runs. Sri Lanka fell short, managing only 186 runs in 49.1 overs. The key bowlers for Bangladesh were Iqbal Hossain Imon and Shahriar Ahmed, who took three wickets each.

Earlier in the tournament, Bangladesh had defeated Afghanistan and Nepal, guaranteeing their progression to the semi-finals. Sri Lanka, with two wins, also had a chance to top the group, but this match determined the group champions. Bangladesh’s victory set them up to face Pakistan in the semi-finals, as per the tournament’s rules, where the top team from one group faces the runner-up from the other.

In the match, Bangladesh batted first after losing the toss, posting 225 all out in 46.3 overs. Jawad Abrar was the top scorer with 49 runs, while Rifat Beg scored 36 and Kalam Siddique added 32. Sri Lanka's Kabiza Gamage was the best bowler, taking 4 wickets for 38 runs. Despite a strong start, Sri Lanka’s chase faltered early, losing four wickets for just 44 runs. Chamikah Hinatigala fought back with 41 runs, but it wasn’t enough. The Lankan innings ended at 186, with Bangladesh securing a comfortable victory.

Bangladesh will now face Pakistan on December 19 at 11 AM in Dubai, aiming to reach the final.