Guangzhou: (RightNow) Sri Lanka clinched the bronze medal in the Asian Games men’s cricket event by defeating Bangladesh by 63 runs. Sri Lankan player Tharindu Rathnayake played a crucial role in the victory with his outstanding all-round performance.

Sri Lanka’s team lost four wickets for 21 runs in the initial four overs. However, captain Sahan Arachchige and Rathnayake stabilized the innings. Rathnayake scored 65 runs off 32 balls, including 5 sixes and 7 fours.

The duo added 93 runs in 46 balls for the sixth wicket partnership. This partnership helped Sri Lanka score 64 runs in the last five overs. Bangladesh was all out for 102 runs in 17.3 overs while chasing the target.

Rathnayake also took two wickets, while Nuwan Thushara and other spinners kept Bangladesh’s batting line under pressure. This victory secured the bronze medal for Sri Lanka in the Asian Games.

It is noteworthy that cricket in the Asian Games holds significant importance, and this victory is a major morale booster for the Sri Lankan team.