News by “Sana Ullah”
In an impressive display of batting prowess, Pathum Nissanka’s brilliant century, complemented by Charith Asalanka’s 91, guided Sri Lanka to a comfortable three-wicket victory over Bangladesh in the second ODI of the three-match series held in Chittagong on Friday.
Opting to bat first, Bangladesh posted a competitive total of 286/7, propelled by Soumya Sarkar and Towhid Hridoy’s solid half-centuries.
Despite losing wicketkeeper Litton Das early on, skipper Najmul Hossain Shanto stabilized the innings with a brisk 40, supported by Sarkar’s fluent 68. Hridoy’s unbeaten 96 anchored Bangladesh’s innings, guiding them to a commendable total.
Sri Lanka’s Wanindu Hasaranga led the bowling attack with figures of 4/45, while Dilshan Madushanka claimed two crucial wickets.
Chasing 287 for victory, Sri Lanka found themselves in trouble at 41/3. However, a remarkable partnership of 185 runs between Nissanka and Asalanka revived their innings.
Nissanka’s splendid 114 and Asalanka’s 91 laid the foundation for Sri Lanka’s successful chase. Despite late wickets, Hasaranga’s cameo and Dunith Wellalage’s nerveless innings guided Sri Lanka to victory with 17 balls to spare.
Taskin Ahmed and Shoriful Islam picked up two wickets each for Bangladesh, but it wasn’t enough to prevent Sri Lanka from leveling the series.
The thrilling three-wicket win sets up an exciting finale between Sri Lanka and Bangladesh in the final ODI scheduled for Monday.
