Sri Lanka’s performance in the Asia Cup has been one of the most stunning comebacks in Asia Cup history. After getting off to one of the worst possible starts in their first game against Afghanistan the team went on knock-out Bangladesh and India.
Commentators have pointed alluded the Lankan team has historically done well in multilateral tournaments in the past including ICC World Cup finals 2007, 2009, 2011, 2012 and winning the 2014 title.
However since 2015 the team has been in decline, and investment in young talent is paying rich dividends.
One of those talented batsmen, Kusal Mendis is among the tournament’s top run scorers. His fearless batting display against some of the world’s top strike bowlers including Bangladesh’s Shakib Al Hasan and Afghan spinner Rashid Khan helped Sri Lanka get off to a flying starts.
Reaction to Sri Lanka’s Asia Cup win over India
Phew!! Amazing effort by the entire team ❤ https://t.co/Hd5gA8WHBS
— Bhanuka Rajapaksa (@BhanukaRajapak3) September 6, 2022
What a fantastic win by @OfficialSLC never say die attitude and sparkling talent and ability. @BhanukaRajapak3 @dasunshanaka1 madushanka, @KusalMendis13 @pathuwa18 so good to watch
— Kumar Sangakkara (@KumarSanga2) September 6, 2022
The batting has been fearless and refreshing. Very good so far from Sri Lanka.
— Harsha Bhogle (@bhogleharsha) September 6, 2022
After a shocking start, SL have turned things around remarkably to become the fist team to qualify for Asia Cup finals. It’s been a tough 6 months going through the worst economic crisis. There’s no better feeling in sports than to beat the big brother. This will bring a smile. pic.twitter.com/PYBN4Tbfcj
— Rex Clementine (@RexClementine) September 6, 2022
Congratulations @OfficialSLC Another fabulous chase but more positives in the field too.. this is exciting #AsiaCup #AsiaCup2022 Really good stuff 👏👏👏
— Russel Arnold (@RusselArnold69) September 6, 2022
Well done @OfficialSLC boys & congratulations for making it to the finals👏🏼 Thoroughly deserve all the appreciation for the effort put in so far. One more step towards winning it👍🏽 #AsiaCupT20
— Farveez Maharoof (@farveezmaharoof) September 6, 2022