Sri Lanka Outclass Bangladesh in First T20I with Dominant All-Round Display
Sri Lanka made a thunderous start to the three-match T20I series against Bangladesh, securing a commanding seven-wicket victory in Pallekele. From the very first ball, the home side looked in complete control, and by the end of the match, it was clear they had outplayed Bangladesh in all departments.
Chasing a target of 155, Sri Lanka wasted no time asserting their dominance. Pathum Nissanka and Kusal Mendis came out firing, putting on a rapid 78-run partnership in just 28 balls. The crowd erupted as Nissanka set the tone with a boundary off the first ball and continued to punish the bowlers with five fours and three massive sixes. His 42 off just 16 deliveries was explosive and left Bangladesh scrambling for answers.
Kusal Mendis, riding high on confidence after his match-winning century in the ODI series at the same venue, played the perfect anchor role. His composed 73 from 51 balls included five boundaries and three sixes, ensuring the chase was smooth and never under threat. Even after Nissanka’s departure, Mendis remained steady, forging a 42-run stand with Kusal Perera, who also chipped in with some entertaining strokes, including a reverse-swept six that sent the fans into a frenzy.
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The winning moment came fittingly from Sri Lankan skipper Charith Asalanka, who finished the game in style by lofting Tanzim Hasan straight down the ground for six, sealing the win with an over to spare.
Earlier in the evening, Bangladesh had their moments but couldn’t capitalize. Their openers, Parvez Hossain and Tanzid Hasan, provided a bright start with 46 runs in the first five overs. However, once the first wicket fell, the innings began to unravel. Sri Lanka’s bowlers tightened the screws, particularly Dasun Shanaka, who marked his return to international cricket after nearly a year with an economical spell, conceding just 22 runs in four overs and picking up a crucial wicket.
Leg-spinner Jeffrey Vandersay, filling in for the injured Wanindu Hasaranga, played a pivotal role with a disciplined four-over spell for 25 runs, also claiming a wicket. On a pitch that was largely batter-friendly, the Lankan bowlers executed their plans smartly, never letting Bangladesh run away with the game.
Ultimately, Bangladesh’s 155 felt below par given the conditions. Their bowlers lacked the variation and control to stop Sri Lanka’s aggressive top order, and the result was a clinical win for the hosts.
The action now shifts to Dambulla for the second T20I on Sunday. Bangladesh will have to regroup quickly if they hope to bounce back in the series, while Sri Lanka will look to ride the momentum and seal the series with another win. Fans can expect more fireworks as this gripping rivalry continues to unfold.
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