Bangladesh secured a dramatic 16-run victory over Sri Lanka in the second One-Day International (ODI) in Colombo on Saturday, squaring the three-match series at 1-1.
Chasing a target of 249, Sri Lanka mounted a late surge, but Bangladesh held their nerve in a nail-biting finish.
Sri Lanka, initially struggling at 170 for 8, was propelled back into contention by Janith Liyanage’s fighting 78.
Needing 27 runs from the final three overs, Liyanage hit a six off the first ball of the 48th over, igniting hopes among the home crowd.
However, Mustafizur Rahman delivered a crucial off-cutter on the next ball, which Liyanage spooned back for a return catch, swinging momentum back to Bangladesh.
Tanvir Islam’s Five-Wicket Haul Seals Victory
The turning point for Bangladesh was the performance of left-arm spinner Tanvir Islam. Playing only his second ODI, Tanvir rebounded from an expensive start to claim career-best figures of 5-39.
Early in his spell, Kusal Mendis aggressively took him for 22 runs in two overs, including a rapid 20-ball fifty—the fastest at the R. Premadasa Stadium.
Despite this, Bangladesh showed faith in Tanvir, who then dismissed Mendis via a review, sparking a Sri Lankan collapse.
Tanvir received excellent support from off-spinners and captain Mehidy Hasan Miraz and Shamir Hossain, who tightened the screws and forced errors.
While Bangladesh had initially geared their lineup for a pace-friendly pitch, it was their spinners who ultimately dominated.
Earlier, Sri Lanka’s seamer Asitha Fernando took a career-best 4-35, helping bowl out Bangladesh for 248 within 46 overs.
Sri Lankan skipper Charith Asalanka expressed disappointment with the home team’s performance, promising to regroup for the final match.
Bangladesh captain Mehidy Hasan, conversely, praised his young team’s fighting spirit, stating they have “nothing to lose” and will give their best in the decider.
The decisive third ODI is scheduled for July 8, followed by a three-match Twenty20 series.
