The 8th encounter of the T20 Asia Cup 2025 features Sri Lanka playing at Dubai International Cricket Stadium, an iconic venue known for high scores and a batting-friendly surface. Sri Lanka has looked very impressive so far with a combination of experience and young players. While batting conditions may be ideal, teams bowling second have performed better here in previous matches, so the competition will still have to keep Sri Lanka in check from a balanced lineup.
Batters

Pathum Nissanka is in excellent form, and as he has been the linchpin of Sri Lanka’s innings, he can find runs almost at will. He has 3722 runs in 134 innings, with a highest score of 119. He has a temperament that is the right blend of needing to knock the ball around for a bit and the ability to kick on fast when required. His strike rate of 127.33 should tell you he has been able to respond to the changing demands of a game, which makes him very valuable as an opening batsman.
Kusal Mendis is another player who can single-handedly change a game. Mendis has scored 4,982 runs at a strike rate of 137.43. The experience is combined with the explosive ability, which allows Mendis to perform with composure under pressure. His other statistics feature a high of 105, which shows his ability to play a big innings when it matters. Under the batting-friendly surface in Dubai, Mendis can top bowlers with aggressive shots.
All-Rounders

Captain Dasun Shanaka provides balance as well as versatility from within the side. Having scored 4,601 career runs and taken 95 wickets, Shanaka can either be a big influence with the bat or the ball. Whether he’s playing a crucial innings down the order or effective overs as a bowler during a key moment in the game, he has the potential to turn the game in Sri Lanka’s favour.
Wanindu Hasaranga is one of the most dangerous all-rounders in T20 today. He has 2402 runs and 319 wickets, and he can change the trajectory in both innings. His leg-spin is potent anywhere there is turn on a pitch, while his batting averages above 20, and he tends to score the runs that matter when you need those runs the most.
Bowlers

Dushmantha Chameera is an attacking bowler who can make a difference immediately. He has 163 wickets across 152 innings with a best of 4/17. Chameera’s pace, bounce, and accuracy can make him dangerous with the new ball. An early movement on Dubai’s pitch can put a dent into the momentum of top-order batters and allow Sri Lanka to get on the front foot early in the innings.
Nuwan Thushara is a perfect companion to Chameera, with 165 wickets from 124 innings and a best of 5/13. Thushara behaves consistently well in both the powerplay and death overs, and he can take critical wickets while performing smartly, whilst containing scoring. Thushara’s dual skills of breaking partnerships and applying pressure will be a valuable addition in keeping our opposition under pressure.
FAQs
1: Who are the top batters to watch for Sri Lanka in the 8th T20 Asia Cup match?
Pathum Nissanka and Kusal Mendis are the key batters to watch.
2: Which all-rounders can make a significant impact for Sri Lanka?
Dasun Shanaka and Wanindu Hasaranga are the game-changing all-rounders.
3: Who are Sri Lanka’s main bowlers for this match?
Dushmantha Chameera and Nuwan Thushara are the wicket-taking threats.
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