By 
Sri Lanka began their Asia Cup journey on a high note by defeating Bangladesh. This victory marked Sri Lanka’s 11th consecutive win in One Day Internationals (ODIs), establishing their longest winning streak in this format.
At the start of the day, Bangladesh won the toss and chose to bat first. However, their batting performance struggled as they lost three wickets within the powerplay, with the score standing at 36/3 after 10.4 overs. A partnership of 59 runs between Najmul Shanto and Towhid Hridoy offered some relief for Bangladesh temporarily. Despite Shanto’s brilliant effort, the lack of support from other players hindered Bangladesh’s progress. Shanto’s impressive knock of 89 runs contributed to Bangladesh’s total score of 164.
Sri Lanka’s Pathirana was the standout bowler, securing 4/32 in 7.4 overs. Maheesh Theekshana claimed 2/19 in his eight overs, and Dhananjaya de Silva, Dunith Wellalage, and captain Dasun Shanaka each took a wicket.
In pursuit of a target of 165, Sri Lanka faced early setbacks with openers Dimuth Karunaratne and Pathum Nissanka getting dismissed quickly, leaving them at 15/2. The duo of Kusal Mendis and Sadeera Samarawickrama worked to stabilize the innings, but Mendis’ dismissal by Shakib dealt another blow, reducing Sri Lanka to 43/3.
A partnership of 78 runs between Sadeera and Charith Asalanka propelled Sri Lanka past the 100-run mark and close to victory. Sadeera’s valuable knock of 54 from 77 balls ended with his dismissal. Despite Dhananjaya de Silva’s departure causing some tension, Asalanka’s impressive unbeaten score of 62* and Shanka’s 14* guided Sri Lanka to a five-wicket triumph.
Skipper Shakib al Hasan secured 2 wickets, conceding 2/29 in his 10 overs, while Taskin Ahmed, Shoriful Islam, and Mehadi Hasan claimed a wicket each.
Matheesha Pathirana was named the Player of the Match for his exceptional spell of 4/32.
Comments