The Asia Cup 2025 is set to bring back the excitement of India-Sri Lanka matches in the shortest format. Starting September 9 in the UAE, the tournament will feature top Asian teams battling it out ahead of next year's T20 World Cup.
Sri Lanka are placed in Group B and they begin their campaign against Bangladesh in Abu Dhabi on September 13. With both history and form in focus, experts have already begun weighing in on possible finalists.
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Aakash Chopra picks Sri Lanka's probable XI for Asia Cup 2025
In a video on his YouTube channel, former India opener Aakash Chopra named his likely Sri Lanka XI for the tournament. He backed Pathum Nissanka and Kusal Perera to open followed by Kusal Mendis and Kamindu Mendis in the top order.
Charith Asalanka and captain Dasun Shanaka added middle-order strength with Wanindu Hasaranga and Dunith Wellalage offering all-round options.
Chopra said that the bowling unit, led by Dushmantha Chameera and Matheesha Pathirana, could be rounded off by either Binura Fernando or Maheesh Theekshana depending on conditions.
Highlighting Sri Lanka's depth, Chopra said the side has a mix of aggressive batters and versatile all-rounders. He stressed that while the team may not have too many global superstars, it covers all bases: pace, spin and middle-order stability.
"The squad is looking well-balanced.. they have got plenty of options in fast bowling and the spin department can be very useful in the UAE," Chopra said.
India vs Sri Lanka in the Asia Cup 2025 final?
Chopra suggested that Sri Lanka have the quality to reach the final if they play to their potential - setting up another clash with India.
"They do have an all-condition kind of squad. Sri Lanka are a good team, and I will have to back them to qualify. I won't be surprised if they play so well that they reach the final. It could be an India-Sri Lanka final. That is also a possibility, provided we and they play well," he concluded.
The two sides last met in an Asia Cup final in 2023 where India lifted the trophy in the ODI format. Before that, Sri Lanka won the 2022 edition which was played as a T20 tournament.
As the Asia Cup 2025 edges closer, Sri Lanka's well-rounded squad makes them one of the teams to watch.