Cricket fans were treated to a classic contest on July 5, 2025, when Bangladesh and Sri Lanka met for the second ODI at the iconic R. Premadasa Stadium in Colombo. The match, which started at 2:30 PM local time, was a must-win for Bangladesh after their defeat in the opening game of the series.
Bangladesh Innings
| Batsman | Runs | Balls | 4s | 6s | Strike Rate |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Parvez Hossain Emon | 67 | 69 | 6 | 3 | 97.10 |
| Towhid Hridoy | 51 | 69 | 2 | 0 | 73.91 |
| Shamim Hossain | 22 | 23 | 2 | 1 | 95.65 |
| Jaker Ali | 24 | 40 | 2 | 0 | 60.00 |
| Tanzim Hasan Sakib | 33* | 21 | 2 | 2 | 157.14 |
| Extras | 17 | ||||
| Total | 248 | 45.5 |
Top Sri Lanka Bowlers:
- Asitha Fernando: 4/35 (9 overs)
- Wanindu Hasaranga: 3/60 (9.5 overs)
Sri Lanka Innings
| Batsman | Runs | Balls | 4s | 6s | Strike Rate |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Kusal Mendis | 56 | 31 | 9 | 1 | 180.64 |
| Janith Liyanage | 78 | 85 | 7 | 2 | 91.76 |
| Kamindu Mendis | 33 | 51 | 2 | 0 | 64.70 |
| Dushmantha Chameera | 13 | 31 | 1 | 0 | 41.93 |
| Extras | 5 | ||||
| Total | 232 | 48.5 |
Top Bangladesh Bowlers:
- Tanvir Islam: 5/39 (10 overs)
- Tanzim Hasan Sakib: 2/34 (4.5 overs)
Key Moments & Stats
- Kusal Mendis smashed a 20-ball fifty, the fastest ODI half-century at R. Premadasa and the fourth fastest by a Sri Lankan in ODIs.
- Tanvir Islam claimed his maiden five-wicket haul in just his second ODI, turning the match in Bangladesh’s favor by dismantling Sri Lanka’s middle order.
- Janith Liyanage nearly pulled off a miracle for Sri Lanka with a fighting 78 and a 50-run ninth-wicket partnership with Chameera, but Bangladesh held their nerve at the death.
- Bangladesh’s fielding and bowling in the final overs, especially by Tanzim Hasan Sakib and Mustafizur Rahman, sealed the win with Sri Lanka bowled out in the 49th over.
Bangladesh’s Innings: Building a Defendable Total
Bangladesh’s top order faced early challenges from Sri Lanka’s pace attack, but opener Parvez Hossain Emon anchored the innings with a confident half-century. His partnership with Towhid Hridoy steadied the ship after a shaky start. The middle order chipped in with valuable runs, as Bangladesh focused on rotating the strike and punishing loose deliveries. Despite losing wickets at regular intervals, some late-order hitting ensured Bangladesh posted a competitive total.
Sri Lanka’s Chase: Early Fireworks and a Dramatic Collapse
Sri Lanka’s reply began with a bang, as Kusal Mendis launched a blistering attack, racing to a rapid half-century and putting the Bangladesh bowlers under immediate pressure. The home crowd sensed an easy chase, but the game turned dramatically when Bangladesh introduced their spinners.
Tanvir Islam, playing only his second ODI, emerged as the unlikely hero. After a nervous start, he found his rhythm and spun a web around the Sri Lankan batsmen, claiming crucial wickets in the middle overs. His performance not only stalled Sri Lanka’s momentum but also ignited hope for Bangladesh.
The Final Twist: Bangladesh Hold Their Nerve
As wickets tumbled, Sri Lanka’s hopes rested on Janith Liyanage, who fought valiantly with the tail. The tension in the stadium was palpable as the match swung back and forth. Bangladesh’s bowlers kept their cool in the death overs, with clever variations and tight fielding. The defining moment came when Mustafizur Rahman and Tanzim Hasan Sakib delivered under pressure, sealing a 16-run victory for Bangladesh.
What Made This Match Special?
- Tanvir Islam’s Breakthrough: His five-wicket haul was a game-changer and highlighted the value of spin in subcontinental conditions.
- Bangladesh’s Resilience: Despite setbacks, the team showed character and composure, bouncing back to level the series.
- Sri Lanka’s Fight: The hosts never gave up, making the contest thrilling until the final wicket.
Looking Ahead
With the series now tied 1-1, the stage is set for a mouthwatering decider in Pallekele. Both teams will be eager to carry forward the positives and address their shortcomings as they chase the series win.