Sri Lanka’s Tour of Bangladesh 2024 (1st T20)
Sri Lanka beat Bangladesh in the first T20I of their three match series, clinching a nail-biting three-run win. The match reached its climax in the last over with Bangladesh needing 12 runs for victory. However, Sri Lanka’s Dasun Shanaka held his nerve, delivering a composed over to deny the hosts of glory.
The foundation for Sri Lanka’s triumph was laid by their batsmen, with Kusal Mendis, Sadeera Samarawickrama, and Charith Asalanka delivering standout performances. Mendis tallied an impressive 59, while Sadeera and Asalanka finished unbeaten on 61 and 44 respectively. Their aggressive batting propelled Sri Lanka to a formidable total of 206 for 3 in 20 overs, setting the stage for a thrilling encounter.
Bangladesh initially struggled to combat their unique bowling attack of the Lankan Lions, losing four wickets inside the first nine overs. However, a late surge from Bangladesh’s middle and lower order took the game right down to the wire, with Jaker Ali standing strong till the very last over.
Bangladesh forced their way back into the game, needing just 12 runs off the final over but fell victim to Dasun Shanaka at the final hurdle. Sri Lanka’s determination to pull through in tough situations emerged yet again, with the visitors claiming two wickets in the final over and only allowing for a single boundary. Taskin Ahmed, needing a five off the final delivery to secure a win, could only manage a single as Sri Lanka erupted in celebration, sealing their hard-fought victory.
Chief Scores:
Sri Lanka – 206 for 3 in 20 overs (Sadeera Samarawickrama 61*, Kusal Mendis 59, Charith Asalanka 44*, Rishad Hossain 1 for 32, Taskin Ahmed 1 for 40, Shoriful Islam 1 for 47)
Bangladesh – 203 for 8 in 20 overs (Jaker Ali 68, Mahmudullah 54, Najmul Hossain Shanto 20, Angelo Mathews 2 for 17, Dasun Shanaka 2 for 36, Binura Fernando 2 for 41)
