Image Credit: Sportstar on X

 COLOMBO – Sri Lanka secured a convincing 77-run win over Bangladesh in the opening ODI of the three-match series, riding on captain Charith Asalanka’s 5th ODI century and a dominant display from their spinners.

Sri Lanka first innings (244 all out):

After choosing to bat first, Sri Lanka managed a total of 244 in 49.2 overs. Asalanka stood tall with a composed 106 off 123 deliveries, anchoring the innings. Kusal Mendis supported with a steady 45, but the team fell short of fully capitalizing in the death overs.

Bangladesh innings (167 all out in 35.5 overs):

Bangladesh began the chase with promise, reaching 100 for 1 at one stage. However, a run-out triggered a collapse, with the team losing seven wickets for 4 runs of just four overs.

Spin stranglehold:

Wanindu Hasaranga turned the game on its head with figures of 4 for 10 in 7.5 overs. He was brilliantly backed by Kamindu Mendis, who picked up 3 for 19. The duo dismantled the Bangladesh middle and lower order with precision on a surface that increasingly offered turn.

Bangladesh’s lone fight:

Tanzid Hasan played a fluent knock of 62 off 61 balls, while Jaker Ali added 51 off 64. Despite their resistance, Bangladesh faltered due to a lack of support from the rest of the batting lineup.

Player of the Match Charith Asalanka praised his team’s fielding and bowling effort, though he expressed some regret at not posting a bigger total given the strong start.

Series Outlook

Sri Lanka now lead the three-match ODI series 1–0, having earlier clinched the Test series 1–0 as well. The second ODI will be played on July 5 at the same venue. Bangladesh, meanwhile, will need to regroup quickly and address their vulnerability against spin.

Sri Lanka’s strong all-round performance—highlighted by Asalanka’s leadership, spin bowling brilliance, and disciplined fielding—set the tone for the series. Bangladesh must bring a more composed and consistent effort in the upcoming matches to stay alive in the series.

Appearance of a Snake in Bangladesh Innings

During the third over of Bangladesh’s innings, a large snake unexpectedly slithered onto the field. Believed to be a nonvenomous rat snake, it caused no harm to anyone and was safely removed without injury.


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