(source : ANI) ( Photo Credit : ani)
Sri Lanka’s cricket captain Charith Asalanka is buzzing with confidence as his team steps into the 2024 Asia Cup as defending champions in the T20 format. Even though India grabbed the trophy in the 2023 edition, that one was all about ODIs, timed perfectly before the 50-over World Cup. This year, with the 2026 T20 World Cup on the horizon, the Asia Cup switches to T20Is—and guess what? Sri Lanka won the last T20 version back in 2022.
Speaking ahead of their opening clash against Bangladesh in Abu Dhabi, Asalanka shared how the defending champions tag gives his squad a real mental boost. “Mentally, being defending champions feels great,” he told reporters, as per ESPNcricinfo. “Many of these players were part of that winning team here in the UAE. We know we can go all the way, and it’s firing up the boys.”
The two teams are no strangers—they’ve locked horns plenty this year alone, with three T20Is, three ODIs, and two Tests under their belts. Sri Lanka dominated the ODIs and the Test series, but Bangladesh stole the show in those T20Is. That sets the stage for a nail-biting showdown in this Asia Cup.
As for the pitches, both sides are used to those slow, spin-loving tracks back home. But Asalanka has a positive spin on Abu Dhabi’s conditions. “Compared to other UAE spots, Abu Dhabi offers the best pitches for batters,” he said. “Once the ball softens up, batting gets way easier, and the outfield is super quick. Every batter dreams of playing here.” Sounds like a fresh challenge that could spice up the Asia Cup action!
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