📅 Match Details:
🏏 Match: 1st ODI – Sri Lanka vs Bangladesh
📍 Venue: Pallekele International Cricket Stadium, Sri Lanka
🗓️ Date: 02-07-2025
📝 Match Summary:
In an electrifying opening to the ODI series, Sri Lanka outclassed Bangladesh with a commanding all-round performance in Pallekele. The Lankan Lions, backed by a spirited home crowd, delivered a clinical show with both bat and ball to take a 1–0 lead in the 3-match series.
🔹 Toss & Team News:
Sri Lanka won the toss and opted to bat first — a decision that paid off handsomely. Bangladesh made a couple of changes in their playing XI, looking to balance their bowling attack, while Sri Lanka went in with a power-packed top order.
🏏 Sri Lanka’s Innings:
The hosts got off to a solid start with Pathum Nissanka and Kusal Mendis stitching a fluent partnership. Nissanka’s classy 82 off 94 balls set the tone, while Mendis anchored the middle overs with a gritty 56.
Late fireworks from Charith Asalanka (45 off 28) powered Sri Lanka to a challenging total of 287/7 in 50 overs.
Top Scores – Sri Lanka:
- Pathum Nissanka – 82 (94)
- Kusal Mendis – 56 (71)
- Charith Asalanka – 45 (28)
Best Bowling – Bangladesh:
- Mehidy Hasan – 2/42
- Taskin Ahmed – 2/55
🎯 Bangladesh’s Run Chase:
Chasing 288 on a slightly two-paced surface, Bangladesh faltered early. Matheesha Pathirana struck early with pace and swing, sending back both openers within the powerplay. Despite a fighting 63 from Litton Das, the visitors never recovered momentum.
Sri Lanka’s bowlers kept the pressure on, with Maheesh Theekshana and Dasun Shanaka picking crucial wickets. Bangladesh were eventually bowled out for 224 in 46.3 overs, falling short by 63 runs.
Top Scores – Bangladesh:
- Litton Das – 63 (77)
- Mushfiqur Rahim – 39 (52)
Best Bowling – Sri Lanka:
- Matheesha Pathirana – 3/36
- Maheesh Theekshana – 2/38
🏆 Player of the Match:
Pathum Nissanka for his composed 82 at the top of the order.
📊 Key Moments:
- Nissanka’s 50+ opening stand that laid the platform.
- Pathirana’s early double-blow denting Bangladesh’s top order.
- Tight middle-overs bowling by Theekshana choking the run chase.
📌 What’s Next?
With a 1–0 lead, Sri Lanka will head into the 2nd ODI with momentum, while Bangladesh must regroup quickly to stay alive in the series. The next match promises more fireworks as both sides aim for consistency.
🔍 Final Verdict:
A dominant start by Sri Lanka, marked by smart batting and ruthless bowling. Bangladesh will need to rethink their strategy if they wish to bounce back. This ODI series is heating up quickly
