Sri Lanka come into the Asia Cup 2025 as T20I defending champions, looking to carry on their winning momentum. Though India won the ODI Asia Cup in 2023, the T20I format of the tournament is distinct. The Asia Cup switches between the two white-ball formats based on the World Cup that succeeds the Asia Cup. In 2023, the 50-over World Cup meant India won the ODI title. In 2025, with the T20 World Cup looming ahead, teams are playing the T20I version. Sri Lanka, having won the 2022 T20I Asia Cup, bring the defending champion tag to the UAE. Ahead of the Bangladesh game, SL skipper Charith Asalanka said: "Mentally, the fact that we are defending champions is a really good thing. It was a lot of these players that played in that last tournament here [in UAE] as well. We know that because we are champions we can go far. The players are using that as motivation." Also Read | 2025 Asia Cup ticket prices reduced after seats stayed unsold Pitch Conditions and Familiarity with Bangladesh There should be great batting conditions in Abu Dhabi, a change from the slower home pitches in Sri Lanka and Bangladesh. SL Skipper Asalanka added: "When you're rating these conditions with other venues in the UAE, I think Abu Dhabi is the best pitch for batters. Once the ball gets softer it's much easier to bat here, and the outfield is very nice. Every batsman wants to play in Abu Dhabi." Sri Lanka and Bangladesh have already played each other several times this year, including three T20Is, three ODIs, and two Tests. Though Sri Lanka dominated the ODIs and Tests, Bangladesh won the T20I series. All this familiarity between the two teams creates a competitive beginning to the Asia Cup. The title holders will seek to capitalize on their experience and momentum as they bid to hold onto their T20I title. With the Abu Dhabi wicket being a batting friendly, spectators can be assured of an entertaining and high-scoring battle between these old foes.