adeera Samarawickrama fell just seven runs short of what could have been his inaugural century in ODIs. Nonetheless, his composed performance led Sri Lanka to a formidable total of 257 runs against Bangladesh in the Super Four stage of the Asia Cup.
Opting to bowl first in the Colombo match, Bangladesh claimed an early victory by dismissing Dimuth Karunaratne for 17 in the sixth over.
The partnership between Pathum Nissanka and Kusal Mendis, however, saw the Sri Lankan side stabilizing, adding 74 runs to the scoreboard.
Bangladesh’s fielding displayed signs of sloppiness during the match. Mushfiqur Rahim missed a chance to catch Nissanka behind the wicket, and Shamim Hossain’s dropped catch at deep resulted in a six.
Shoriful Islam’s short-ball tactic removed Nissanka from the pitch. Subsequently, Sri Lanka experienced a series of setbacks. Nissanka departed after scoring 40, while Kusal’s contribution ended at 50.
Sadeera, however, stood resolute on one end, ensuring the scoreboard kept ticking.
Bangladesh’s captain, Shakib Al Hasan, exhibited shrewd tactical prowess with his bowler selections.
Nasum Ahmed, the left-arm spinner drafted into the XI in place of Afif Hossain, bowled a tight spell, conceding only 31 runs in his 10 overs, albeit without claiming a wicket.
By the innings’ close, Sri Lanka had amassed a challenging total of 257. Bangladesh’s track record in ODIs against Sri Lanka when chasing 257 or more stands without a victory.
-Agencies
