There appears to be a breakthrough in the long-running Asia Cup imbroglio. Though it might still be a tad premature to make full conclusions regarding the future of the tournament, there is increasing optimism around the continental showpiece. This is a significant departure from the cloud of uncertainty that had loomed large over the event as a result of the ongoing India-Pakistan tensions.

Although nothing official has been finalized, strong indications suggest that a formal decision could be reached as early as next week. The Asian Cricket Council (ACC) is reportedly planning to release the full schedule for the six-team competition in the first week of July, coinciding with a scheduled meeting. If all goes as planned, the tournament is likely to start during the second week of September.

The Asia Cup, to be played in the T20 format this season, is expected to start on September 10. Besides India and Pakistan, who are conventional powerhouses, other countries participating are Afghanistan, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, and the UAE. In fact, promotional activities have already begun in anticipation of the event’s successful organization.

Venue and Political Tensions at the Forefront

The UAE remains the frontrunner to host the tournament, though discussions are ongoing regarding a potential hybrid format. While India is the official host this time, the ACC had previously resolved that when it's India's or Pakistan's turn, the event would be held at a neutral venue to avoid political complications. The April terror attack in Pahalgam and India's subsequent Operation Sindoor in May had sown considerable doubt over the Asia Cup amid calls in India to boycott Pakistan in multilateral cricket.

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While there have been political shenanigans, recent developments suggest that a softening of positions is possible. The ICC recently announced fixtures for two global events—the Women’s ODI World Cup in India and Sri Lanka and the Women’s T20 World Cup in England—where India and Pakistan are scheduled to clash. These marquee matchups remain crucial revenue sources for global cricket. While India and the BCCI are financially secure without them, entities like the ICC and ACC heavily depend on such high-profile games.

SL vs. BAN, 2nd Test, Day 4:

• Bangladesh: 247 and 133
• Sri Lanka: 458
• Sri Lanka won the match by an innings and 78 runs.

A humiliating day for Bangladesh. The fourth day of the second Test between Sri Lanka and Bangladesh ended in the blink of an eye. The Tiger Brigade started their day at 115/6 and all wickets down on 133. They managed to add only 18 runs in the morning. As soon as Bangladesh lost their last hope in the match, Sri Lanka won the game by an innings and 78 runs. Pathum Nissanka got the man of the match award for his 158-run innings. 

On a dry surface in Colombo, Bangladesh's batting department was totally outclassed by the slow and spin bowlers of the host team. Sri Lanka utilized their home soil purely, with Prabath Jayasuriya claiming a 5-wicket haul. He almost single-handedly clinched the entire middle order of Bangladesh. Experienced batters like Mushfiqur Rahim and Liton Das were tricked by the slow left-arm orthodox bowler. Das was the last hope for the touring team, who were dismissed for only 14, and Rahim, on Day 3, lost his wicket by 26. 

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Turning points of the match

• Pathum Nissanka's century 
• Lackluster batting by Bangladesh 
• Prabhat Jayasurya's 5-wicket spell

The game's turning point was the century by Pathum Nissanka. He faced 254 balls and scored 158 runs. Dinesh Chandimal and Kusal Mendis also played their parts brilliantly to put the team in a comfortable position. The way Sri Lanka typically handled the pitch, the Bangladeshi batter couldn't show that resilience. As a result, they lost the match by an inning and 78 runs. 

The team led by Najmul Hossain Shanto batted superbly in the first innings, but that match ended in a draw. In the end, Sri Lanka won the 2-match Test series by 1-0. 

Dominance Displayed! 🇱🇰🏏
Sri Lanka crush Bangladesh by an innings and 78 runs in SSS Colombo!
•Pathum Nissanka leads with a superb 158
•Prabath Jayasuriya spins a web with 5/56
•Sonal Dinusha shines with 3/22 on debut

Victory sealed in style at the 2nd Test! 🏆
#SLvBAN… pic.twitter.com/1rx6Q42Jwv

— Sri Lanka Cricket 🇱🇰 (@OfficialSLC) June 28, 2025

SL vs BAN 2nd Test Day 4 final scorecard in brief

Bangladesh- 133 (Second Innings) 

SL vs BAN 2nd Test, Day 3:

• Bangladesh: 247 and 115/6 (Second Innings, 38.4 Overs)
• Sri Lanka: 458 (First Innings)

Bangladesh is now in trouble after Day 3. They lost most of their prime batsmen before the stumps. After Day 3, the visiting side is trailing by 96 runs. Liton Das remained untouched for individual 13 and will start Day 4. 

Sri Lanka started Day 3 with 290 runs in the bag and 8 wickets in hand. Pathum Nissanka, who completed his century on Day 2, extended his innings to 158 off 254 balls. Kamindu Mendis (33) and Kusal Mendis also played their parts as the middle-order batters. Kusal's 84 worked as another booster to drive Sri Lanka's total to 458. Thus, the host team took a 211-run lead against Bangladesh. Taijul Islam, the left-arm orthodox spinner, recorded a 5-wicket haul for Tiger Brigade. 

Key factors of Day 3

• Pathum Nissanka's 158 supported by Kushal Mendis' 84
• Sri Lanka got early break-throughs

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The wicket gradually got drier than the previous day and became an ideal surface for the spinners and slow pacer bowlers to take charge. In the second innings of Bangladesh, Prabath Jayasuriya and Sri Lanka skipper Dhananjaya de Silva claimed 2 wickets each. Bangladesh ended the day after scoring only 115 in exchange for 6 scalps. As of now, Sri Lanka is in the driving seat at Colombo. The first test of the two-match series resulted in a draw. If they manage to win the second match, then the host team can win the series by 1-0. 

SL vs BAN 2nd Test, Day 3 scoreboard in brief:

Sri Lanka- 458

Bangladesh- 115/6 (Second Innings, 38.4 Overs)

Sri Lanka has named a 16-player squad for the upcoming three-match ODI series against Bangladesh, scheduled to be played on July 2, 5, and 8. The series will begin in Colombo with the first two matches at the R. Premadasa International Cricket Stadium, while the third and final ODI will be held at the Pallekele International Cricket Stadium.

Charith Asalanka, who has emerged as a key figure in Sri Lankan cricket since being appointed captain last year, will continue to lead the side in the 50-over format. His leadership at home will be crucial as Sri Lanka looks to build momentum. One of the most in-form players, Pathum Nissanka, who has already notched back-to-back centuries in the ongoing Test series against Bangladesh, is expected to carry his excellent form into the ODIs.

The squad sees the return of several experienced campaigners, such as Kusal Mendis, Avishka Fernando, Wanindu Hasaranga, and Maheesh Theekshana, all of whom are set to play key roles. Milan Rathnayake, who was ruled out of the second Test due to injury, has also been named in the ODI squad, although his availability will depend on fitness clearance. The ODI series will be followed by a T20I series between the two sides.

Asalanka to lead as Nissanka eyes more runs

Charith Asalanka’s presence brings continuity in leadership, while the inclusion of in-form players like Nissanka adds firepower to Sri Lanka’s top order. Nissanka, with his recent red-ball exploits, will be keen to dominate in the white-ball format as well. With a good blend of youth and experience, the hosts will look to take full advantage of home conditions against a competitive Bangladesh side.

Bangladesh, on their part, has already announced the return of a star batter and some senior players for the ODI series, raising the stakes for this clash. The upcoming series will not only serve as a continuation of the ongoing rivalry but also as a key preparation platform for future white-ball assignments.

See Also: New Zealand announce squad for T20 tri-series aganist Zimbabwe and South Africa 

Sri Lanka ODI squad vs. Bangladesh:
Charith Asalanka (c), Pathum Nissanka, Avishka Fernando, Nishan Madushka, Kusal Mendis, Sadeera Samarawickrama, Kamindu Mendis, Janith Liyanage, Dunith Wellalage, Wanindu Hasaranga, Maheesh Theekshana, Jeffrey Vandersay, Milan Rathnayake*, Dilshan Madushanka, Asitha Fernando, and Eshan Malinga.
(Subject to fitness)

SL vs. BAN 2nd Test Day 2:

• Bangladesh: 247/10(79.3 overs)
• Sri Lanka: 290/2 (78 Overs)

Bangladesh started Day 2 of the second Test versus Sri Lanka with only 2 wickets in hand. They concluded Day 1 with 220 and added 27 runs today before they lost all their wickets at Sinhalese Sports Club Cricket Ground, Colombo. In reply, Pathum Nissanka has scored a ton and remained not out for 146. After Day 2, Sri Lanka is on top of their game. 

The pitch was dry, not enough offerings for the seamers. But Nahid Rana, with his express speed, was exciting to watch on the field. But his line and length were not close to threatening a well-settled batsman. And the most important part of the bowling is to take wickets or bring down the run rate of the batting side. Rana, in his 12 overs, offered 54 runs, including a maiden over and a 4.5 economy rate. Taijul Islam, the orthodox spinner, was so far the best for Bangladesh in terms of bowling figures. He took the wicket of Lahiru Udara (40) through a leg before the wicket. 

Read More: SL vs BAN 2nd Test, Day 1: Key moments and match highlights

The way Sri Lanka ended Day 2, they can go a few more miles on Day 3. Nissanka will start the new day with Prabath Jayasuriya, the night watchman. Dinesh Chandimal departed after playing a 95-run innings. Nayeem Hasan and keeper Liton Das combined to take the experienced batter's wicket. 

Key Moments of the day:

• Pathum Nissanka's century
• The wicket of Dinesh Chandimal 

SL vs BAN 2nd Test Day 2 Scoreboard in Brief

Bangladesh- 247 (1st innings)

Sri Lanka - 290/ 2 (78 Overs)

Bangladesh takes on Sri Lanka in the 2nd match of the two-Test series. After a draw in the first match, the second assignment has turned into a decisive one for both of the teams. Bangladesh chose to bat first after winning the toss at Sinhalese Sports Club Cricket Ground. The first match was marked by some brilliant batting displays by the Bangladesh captain Najmul Hossain Shanto and Mushfiqur Rahim. Though they couldn't hold their momentum in the first innings of the second match. After the stumps of Day 1, Sri Lanka is currently in the driver's seat, as the visiting side lost 8 wickets for only 220 runs. 

Sri Lanka vs. Bangladesh 2nd Test, Day 1: BAN: 220/8 

From the beginning of the innings, the host team managed to maintain tight bowling and took wickets at regular intervals. Apart from Shadman Islam's 46, the opener for Bangladesh, they did not produce enough excitement to trouble the Sri Lankan bowlers. Liton Das and Rahim tried to stitch together an effective partnership during the middle hours of the day. The experienced duo added a crucial 67 runs to the scoreboard.

The debutant of the match, Sonal Dinusha, caused crucial breakthroughs in the match multiple times. Bangladesh could have avoided the collapse if they had batted more cautiously. Mushfiqur Rahim fell through a reckless shot, and Mehidy Hasan Miraz was looking in a promising touch, but he too fell short. Nayeem Hasan's wicket in the final minutes of the match pushed Bangladesh into more trouble.

Read More: OTD: 43 runs registered from a single over— know more about this unbroken record so far

Key Moments:

• Sonal's brace: The debutant from Sri Lanka took a couple of wickets in Mushfiqur Rahim (35) and Liton Das (34).
• Wicket in the closing moment: Miraz, the last recognized batsman of Bangladesh XI, departed just before the stumps. 

SL vs BAN 2nd Test, Day 1: Scorecard Summery 

Bangladesh cricketer Mushfiqur Rahim surpassed two legendary cricketers, MS Dhoni and Inzamam-ul-Haq, in two different prestigious record books during his batting performance in the first innings of the second or last Test of the series against the hosts Sri Lanka. 

Sinhalese Sports Club Ground in Colombo is hosting the Test series decider, as the winner of the Test match will win the Test series. On the opening day of the final Test of the series, on Wednesday (June 25), Bangladesh scored 220/8. Mushfiqur Rahim is the second-highest run-scorer in this Bangladesh innings with 35 off 75 balls, with five fours. The right-handed batter has played an important role in this series, as he scored 163 and 49 runs in the first Test of the series.  

During his latest innings, Mushfiqur Rahim surpassed legendary Indian cricketer MS Dhoni in the list of most international run-scorers against Sri Lanka. While Dhoni scored 3087 international runs against Sri Lanka, Mushfiqur has scored 3100 international runs against Sri Lanka. The Bangladesh legend is now standing in the seventh position in the list of most international runs against Sri Lanka. 

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Most international runs vs Sri Lanka

Meanwhile, on the same day, Mushfiqur has also moved up to the third position in the list of most Test runs against Sri Lanka by surpassing legendary Pakistan cricketer Inzamam-ul-Haq. While Inzamam scored 1559 Test runs against the Lankans, Mushfiqur has scored 1593 Test runs against the same team. 

Most Test runs vs Sri Lanka

Record-breaking knocks from the captain of Bangladesh, Najmul Hossain Shanto. During the ongoing Test match between Sri Lanka and Bangladesh, Shanto hit tons in each inning. Which itself was a rare achievement.

The achievement became more special as Bangladesh is up against Sri Lanka in an away tour. The left-handed batter in the first inning scored 148 runs against 279 balls. During the development of the innings, he smashed 15 boundaries and one huge six. Shanto was well supported by the experienced batter of the side,

Mushfiqur Rahim, another centurion in the first innings for the visiting team. Rahim made a stunning comeback through his 350-ball, 163-run innings. In the following essay, Shanto again claimed the summit. This time, an unbroken 125-run innings produced from his blade, powered by 9 fours and 3 sixes, a little bit more aggressive approach from the captain of Bangladesh.

🚨 Record Alert 🚨

Shanto joins the elite club with 2 twin tons in a Test.

Even legends like Bradman, Lara, Kohli & Root have just one. Sachin & Cook? Zero. 😲

✅ 8th captain ever to do it in away
✅ 1st visiting captain to do it in Sri Lanka

Congratulations to Shanto. 👏🏻 pic.twitter.com/VzvEUKVJmJ

— Raisul Rifat (@raisul_rifat88) June 21, 2025

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Heroics from Bangladesh can result in a draw after day 5

With the help of multiple centuries, the roaring Tiger brigade put 495/10 and 285/6d in the first and second innings, respectively. For scoring centuries in both innings, the skipper achieved some rare feat under his belt. 

According to stats, Shanto set the 8th example in international cricket to do so as the captain in an away Test, and he became the first ever captain to do it in Sri Lanka. After all the achievements, the rain-struck Test match between Sri Lanka and Bangladesh is projected for a well-fought draw. 

The terror attack incident in Lahore stadium still haunted the Sri Lankan cricketer. When the two nations faced each other in the final of the 2009 ICC World Twenty20, the past experience between Pakistan and Sri Lanka added an extra layer to that title decider match.

Throughout the tournament, Sri Lanka had a crazy run until they reached the grand finale. SL's unbeaten run before the last match was because the brand of cricket they produced was something new at that time. Their batsmen, especially Tillakaratne Dilshan, were formerly innovative. Despite finishing second in the tournament, the Sri Lankan opener was awarded as the highest run scorer and the player of the series of the 2009 T20I World Cup.

Before the final, Pakistan was the less favored side to win the trophy. But when the match started, things started to look different. Pakistan, led by Younis Khan, adopted an attacking approach from the beginning of the match and plucked the wicket of Dilshan, utilizing young Mohammad Amir. Dilshan's wicket was massive. Within the opener, Kumar Sangakkara's team lacked power at the top and produced only 34 for 4 after six.

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Shahid Afridi became the trump card of the team 

The revival of Abdul Razzaq helped Pakistan a lot. In the final, the experienced pacer claimed 3 wickets against 20 runs in his 3-over spell. But the trump card of the Green Brigade was Shahid Afridi. Promoting him to the number three position worked magically for Pakistan.

Shahid Afridi scored 129 runs in his last three innings, after he moved up to No. 3, at a strike rate of 148.27. His hard-hitting continued against Sri Lanka; in the final game, it continued. After claiming 1 wicket, the all-rounder scored a match-winning 54* off 40 and inked his and his nation's name in the history book forever. 

2025 witnessed another retirement in cricket; another legend said goodbye to the longest format of the game. Angelo Mathews, currently playing against Bangladesh in the first Test match of a 2-match series, will hang up his boots after the conclusion of the match in Galle International Stadium.

Before his last Test match for Sri Lanka, the moments he had experienced over the past few hours and days were truly emotional and unforgettable for a player like Mathews, whose international career spanned over 15 years. During the pre-match press conference, the cornerstone of Sri Lanka cricket was emotional and recalled those days when he was new in the dressing room.

"I played my 100th Test in Galle, so I thought I'd say goodbye in Galle. But the main reason was because we don't have any games coming up, at least for now. After this, we'll be having our next assignment in Test cricket after a year's time; that is a very long wait," Angelo Mathews said.

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A grand tribute for Angelo Mathews 

Sri Lanka will play only four Tests in 2025. That's why he chose this match as his retirement stage. The 38-year-old all-rounder debuted for team Sri Lanka back in 2009, and since then he has gotten 8,167 runs and 33 wickets in 118 tests. Mathews reached the 100-Tests milestone in 2022 and became the 12th man to be dismissed for 199 in a Test in the process.

In his last match, the legend of the format received a guard of honor on the field and a special memento as well. Sri Lanka Cricket said on a social media post, "A beautiful tribute to a cricketing icon. Before his final Test, Angelo Mathews was honored in a special ceremony on the hallowed grounds of Galle, joined by his proud family. 

Watch the farewell here

Angelo Mathews Farewell Test: Special Felicitation Ceremony | https://t.co/ltzj4zWmWc #ThankYouAngelo

— Sri Lanka Cricket 🇱🇰 (@OfficialSLC) June 17, 2025