Captain Sri Lanka, Charith Asala’s, downplayed the story of rivalry with fans when his team is preparing for Bangladesh in the opening part of Asia Cup 2025 in Abu Dhabi.
The competition between two Asian rivals often carried another edge and has produced some heated moments over the years. From the infamous “Naagin Derby” during the Nidahas trophy in 2018 to “time-out derby” at the ODI World Cup 2023 OdiThe accessories have developed the reputation of its intensity in and outside the field.
However, the asolana insists that the game is more executed for the players than the hype.
“It is actually a rivalry for fans, but it is a good, challenging competition for us as a player. We just want to put a good game in Bangladesh and other nations,” the captain said at a press conference before the match.
The asolana admitted that the buzzing around the collision could add some motivation, emphasized the need to concentrate on the foundations.
“A little, yes. But at the same time it is just a game for us. We focus on monitoring our foundations and correct implementation of our plans,” he said.
The luminaire also comes with another subplot after Bangladesh beat Sri Lanka in his recent bilateral series on Lankan soil. The asolana acknowledged the failure, but said his team had taken positives from experience.
“I think we all know that they are doing really well at the moment. We lost a series against them in Sri Lanka, but even though we lost, we played a good cricket. We just want to watch our foundations, stick to our plans and do well,” he said.
VABU DHABI could play a role in meetingAnd the asolana believes that the dough will have fun.
“Compared to other places in the United Arab Emirates, Abu Dhabi is the best playground for the dough, especially once the ball is getting older. Outfield is also very nice and I hope that every Batsman likes to play here,” he added.
Sri Lanka will also be strengthened by the return of all-Rounder Wanind Hasarang, who was missing the last series due to injury.
“As a captain, it’s great to have it back in the team. It’s one of our white -ball superstars,” said Asala’s, and emphasized Hasarang’s key threat to Bangladesh.
He and Bangladeshi go high on the recent form and in Sri Lanka eagerly set the tone in their title task, the conflict promises a lot of intrigues regardless of the calm words of the captain. For all the Asalans of insistence that it is “just another game”, history, fans’ expectations, and the return of Wanind Hasarang will ensure that Friday’s “naagin derby” in Abu Dhabi brings much more weight than just two points in the group phase.
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Published:
Amar Pancker
Published on:
September 13, 2025
