Bangladesh A were eliminated from Group A of the eight-nation ACC Men's T20 Emerging Teams Asia Cup 2024 after a 19-run defeat against Sri Lanka A in their final group match at the Al Amerat Cricket Ground in Oman on Tuesday night.

Led by Akbar Ali, who famously captained Bangladesh to their historic U-19 World Cup victory in 2020, the team exited the tournament without reaching the semifinals.

Bangladesh A started the tournament strong, defeating Hong Kong by five wickets with 10 balls to spare in their opening match. However, their campaign ended abruptly after the loss to Sri Lanka A.

With this victory, Sri Lanka A advanced to the semifinals as Group A champions, while Afghanistan A secured the second semifinal spot as runners-up.

In Tuesday's match, Sri Lanka A opted to bat first after winning the toss and posted a competitive 161 for 7 in their 20 overs, thanks to a 64-run fourth-wicket partnership between Parvan Rathnayake and Sahan Arachchige.

Parvan Rathnayake top-scored with 42 off 26 balls, including three fours and two sixes, while Sahan Arachchige added 30 off 25 balls. Bangladesh’s Rejaur Rahman Raja and Ripon Mondal each took two wickets, while Saif Hassan and Mofizur Rahman Rabbi claimed one apiece.

In response, Bangladesh A struggled to chase the target and managed only 142 for 7 in their allotted 20 overs. Lower-order batsman Abu Hider was the top scorer with 38 off 25 balls, hitting one four and three sixes. Saif Hassan (29), Parvez Hossain Emon (24), and Towhid Hridoy (12) were the only other batsmen to reach double figures.

Dushan Hementha was the standout bowler for Sri Lanka, taking three wickets for 23 runs.

The tournament features eight teams divided into two groups, with the top two from each group advancing to the semifinals on October 25. The grand finale is scheduled for October 27.

Bangladesh A was placed in Group A alongside Sri Lanka A, Afghanistan A, and Hong Kong, while Group B included India A, Pakistan A, UAE, and Oman.

BDST: 1053 HRS, OCT 23, 2024
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