Bangladesh broke their seven-match ODI losing streak with a tense 16-run victory over Sri Lanka in the second ODI at the R Premadasa Stadium on Saturday, leveling the series at 1-1 and setting up a deciding match in Kandy.
Chasing 249, Sri Lanka fought hard but fell short, bowled out for 232 in 48.5 overs despite a resilient 78 from Janith Liyanage, who nearly dragged the hosts to an unlikely win with a determined innings under lights.
Bangladesh’s young pacer Tanzim Hasan Sakib was the hero in the final moments, delivering the decisive wicket of Dushmantha Chameera for 13 in the penultimate over. His successful delivery sparked jubilant celebrations among the Bangladesh players, who gathered around him in front of a packed Premadasa.
Earlier, Sri Lanka’s chase got off to an energetic start as Kusal Mendis blasted 56 off 31 balls, reaching his half-century in just 20 balls with nine fours and a six, giving the hosts an early boost. However, spin sensation Tanvir Islam turned the tide for Bangladesh, claiming his maiden five-wicket haul in just his second ODI.
Tanvir’s wickets included Mendis caught lbw on review, Kamindu Mendis, and Dunith Wellalage, reducing Sri Lanka from 82 for 2 to 133 for 6. He also dismissed Maheesh Theekshana, who chipped a catch to short midwicket, sealing his first five-for and leaving Sri Lanka reeling at 170 for 8.
Despite the collapse, Liyanage held firm, reaching his fifth ODI fifty in 75 balls and adding 50 crucial runs for the ninth wicket with Chameera. The pair brought Sri Lanka close, with Liyanage smashing Mustafizur Rahman for a six to cut the target to 21 off 16 balls.
But Mustafizur struck back immediately, catching Liyanage after his fighting 78 off 85 balls, which included seven fours and two sixes. Chameera’s dismissal to Tanzim in the next over sealed Bangladesh’s victory with seven balls remaining.
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