Sri Lanka clinch ODI series against Bangladesh
Towhid Hridoy was bowled after heating fifty, Cricfrenzy
Sri Lanka sealed a 2-1 ODI series victory over Bangladesh with a commanding 99-run win in the third and final match at the Pallekele International Cricket Stadium on Tuesday, thanks to a scintillating century from Kusal Mendis and a disciplined bowling display.
After electing to bat first, Sri Lanka overcame early setbacks to post a formidable 285-7, powered by Mendis’ elegant 124 off 114 balls, featuring 18 boundaries. The skipper Charith Asalanka provided solid support with a composed 58 off 68 deliveries, as the pair shared a 124-run stand for the fourth wicket, anchoring the innings after they were reduced to 100-3.
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Bangladesh fought back in the death overs, with pacer Taskin Ahmed (2-51) and skipper Mehidy Hasan Miraz (2-48) applying the brakes effectively. Shamim Hossain and Tanvir Islam chipped in with a wicket each, preventing Sri Lanka from crossing the 300-run mark.
In response, Bangladesh faltered in the chase from the outset. The top order crumbled to 20-2 within four overs, with Najmul Hossain Shanto falling for a duck and Tanzid Hasan making 17. Despite a gritty 51-run knock from Towhid Hridoy and useful contributions from Parvez Hossain Emon (28) and captain Miraz (28), the visitors failed to build a meaningful partnership.
Sri Lanka’s pace duo of Asitha Fernando (3-33) and Dushmantha Chameera (3-51) ripped through the Bangladeshi batting line-up, while spinners Wanindu Hasaranga (2-35) and Dunith Wellalage (2-33) kept things tight in the middle overs. Bangladesh were eventually bowled out for just 186 in 39.4 overs.
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Mendis, whose century laid the foundation for the Sri Lankan total, was deservedly named Player of the Match. His sixth ODI ton was a masterclass in timing and placement, coming off 95 balls and helping Sri Lanka dominate on a tricky surface.
The victory marks a strong comeback for the hosts after their defeat in the second ODI, while Bangladesh will rue missed opportunities, especially after ending a seven-match losing streak earlier in the series.
