Asian Games cricket bronze: Sri Lanka overturns early collapse to defeat Bangladesh

Sri Lanka’s men’s cricket side recovered from a dramatic early collapse to claim the bronze medal at the Asian Games on 3 October. The team, having lost the semi‑final to India, faced Bangladesh in the third‑place playoff at the Korogi Sports Park.

After slumping to 18 for 4 and 54 for 5, the innings was rescued by a fiery cameo from Tharindu Ratnayake, who struck 65 runs off just 32 deliveries. His aggressive stroke‑play, including five sixes, helped forge a 93‑run partnership with captain Sahan Arachige. The pair accelerated the total to 165 for 9 within the 20‑over limit.

Bangladesh’s chase was hampered by disciplined Sri Lankan bowling. The visitors limped to 102 runs, losing wickets at regular intervals. Nasum Ahmed topped the scoreboard with 26 runs, while Yasin Ali and Parvez Hussain each contributed modestly.

Key bowlers Ratnayake, Nuwan Thushara, Vijayakanth Vyasakant and Vanusa Sahan each claimed two wickets, earning Sri Lanka a comfortable 63‑run victory and the Asian Games bronze medal.