Asia Cup 2025: Bangladesh rivalry is one for the fans, says Sri Lanka captain

Sri Lanka captain Charith Asalanka has downplayed the fan-driven rivalry narrative as his team prepares to face Bangladesh in their opening fixture of the Asia Cup 2025 in Abu Dhabi.

The contest between the two Asian rivals has often carried an extra edge, producing some heated moments over the years. From the infamous “Naagin Derby” during the 2018 Nidahas Trophy to the “Time-Out Derby” in the 2023 ODI World Cup, the fixture has developed a reputation for its intensity both on and off the field.

But Asalanka insists that for players, the match is more about execution than hype.

“It’s actually a rivalry for the fans, but for us as players, it’s a good, challenging competition. We just want to give a good game to Bangladesh and also to other nations,” the skipper said at the pre-match press conference.

While admitting that the buzz around the clash can add some motivation, Asalanka stressed the need to focus on the basics.

“A little bit, yes. But at the same time, it’s just a game for us. We focus on following our basics and executing our plans correctly,” he noted.

The fixture also comes with an added subplot after Bangladesh defeated Sri Lanka in their recent bilateral series on Lankan soil. Asalanka acknowledged the setback but said his team had taken positives from the experience.

“I think we all know they are doing really well at the moment. We lost the series against them in Sri Lanka, but even though we lost, we played good cricket. We just want to follow our basics, stick to our plans, and execute well,” he said.

Conditions in Abu Dhabi could play a role in the encounter, and Asalanka believes batters will enjoy themselves.

“Compared to other venues in the UAE, Abu Dhabi is the best pitch for batters, especially once the ball gets older. The outfield is also very nice, and I hope every batsman enjoys playing here,” he added.

Sri Lanka will also be boosted by the return of star all-rounder Wanindu Hasaranga, who missed the last series due to injury.

“As a captain, it feels great to have him back in the team. He’s one of our superstars in the white-ball format,” Asalanka said, underlining Hasaranga’s role as a key threat to Bangladesh.

With Bangladesh riding high on recent form and Sri Lanka eager to set the tone in their title quest, the clash promises plenty of intrigue regardless of the captain’s calm words. For all of Asalanka’s insistence that it’s “just another game,” history, fan expectations, and the return of Wanindu Hasaranga ensure that Friday’s “Naagin Derby” in Abu Dhabi will carry far more weight than just two points in the group stage.