Image Credit: ESPNcricinfo on X

 At Colombo’s R. Premadasa Stadium, Bangladesh fought a gritty battle to level their three-match ODI series against Sri Lanka with a tense 16-run win in the 2nd ODI on July 5, 2025. With the series now locked at 1–1, the decider will take place in Pallekele on Tuesday.

Batting First: Bangladesh Post 248

Electing to bat first, Bangladesh posted 248 all out in 45.5 overs — a competitive total on a wicket offering variable bounce and turn. Opener Parvez Hossain Emon anchored the innings with a composed 67 off 69 balls, while Towhid Hridoy chipped in with a steady 51 from 69 balls. A late cameo from Tanzim Hasan Sakib, who smashed 33 off just 21 balls, gave Bangladesh the momentum they needed at the death.

Sri Lanka struck regularly, reducing the visitors to 218 for 9. But a stubborn last-wicket partnership helped Bangladesh cross the 240-mark, which proved vital in the end.

Tanvir Islam Seals the Win

Chasing 249, Sri Lanka looked strong early on with Kusal Mendis smashing a quickfire 56 off just 31 balls. Janith Liyanage then shouldered the middle-order responsibility with a fighting 78. However, the game turned sharply in Bangladesh's favor thanks to Tanvir Islam’s sensational spell.

Tanvir picked up 5 wickets for 39 runs, triggering a collapse from Sri Lanka, who fell short of Bangladesh total by 16 runs. His dismissals included top-order batters and crucial breakthroughs that stifled the chase. The final nail came from Tanzim Hasan Sakib, who bowled Dushmantha Chameera to seal the win — Bangladesh's first-ever ODI win at the Premadasa Stadium.

Key Performances

  • Parvez Hossain Emon: 67
  • Towhid Hridoy: 51
  • Tanzim Hasan Sakib: 33 & 1 wicket
  • Tanvir Islam: 5 for 39
  • Janith Liyanage: 78
  • Kusal Mendis: 56

Captains React

Bangladesh captain Mehidy Hasan Miraz praised his bowlers for holding their nerve and executing plans on a challenging surface. He credited Tanvir’s calm mindset and execution under pressure. Sri Lankan skipper Charith Asalanka admitted his side let the game slip despite being in strong positions twice — with both bat and ball.

Looking Ahead

With the series tied at 1-1, both sides will now head to Pallekele for the final ODI on Tuesday. Bangladesh will carry confidence from this spirited comeback, while Sri Lanka will look to regroup and seal the series at home.

SCORECARD

BAN 248 (45.5)

SL 232 (48.5)





Bangladesh won by 16 runs


PLAYER OF THE MATCH
Tanvir Islam