Bangladesh face-off against Sri Lanka in a do-or-die match at the R.Premadasa Stadium. This is the last group match of the Nidahas Trophy and the winning team will face India in the final.

Sri Lanka, after winning their first match against India, lost two successive matches. On the other hand, Bangladesh lost both of their matches against India and won their only clash against the hosts.

Although both teams have amassed 2 points each, a washout will result in Sri Lanka going through to the final on the basis of net run-rate.

The Tigers are relieved to have their ace all-rounder and captain, Shakib AL Hasan, back in the team after almost two months. Kusal Mendis is also fit to play for the island nation.

Shakib has replaced Abu Hider Rony in the Bangladeshi XI. Suranga Lakmal and Dushmanta Chameera have been replaced by Isuru Udana and Amila Aponso.

Winning the toss, Bangladesh decided to bowl first. Shakib opened the bowling for the Tigers and got a wicket in his very 2nd over by dismissing Danushka Gunathilaka.

The next over saw Mustafiz produce a wicket-maiden. The Bangladesh quick sent Kusal Mendis back to the hut on 11 runs. Bangladesh did not have to wait longer for another wicket as Upul Tharanga fell victim to a run-out. Following Upul's exit, Shanaka got out for a duck.

Kusal Perera and Thisara Perera restored the innings by stitching a good partnership for Sri Lanka. Both of them stood firm in front of the Bangladesh bowling attack and picked up a well-deserved half-century each. Their 97-run partnership is the second-highest sixth-wicket partnership in T20Is after Cameron White and Mike Hussey's unbeaten stand of101 runs against Sri Lanka in 2010.

Kusal clubbed 61 off 40 before leaving the pitch. Rubel Hossain got his only wicket in the match by dismissing Thisara on 58.

 

Score:

SL - 159/7 (after 20 overs)