Like Bangladesh, Sri Lanka have gone with a three-man pace attack in the playing XI. Alongside Ishan Malinga and Asitha Fernando, debutant Milan Rathnayake has been handed his first international cap. Pace-bowling allrounder Janith Liyanage is also part of the squad.
In the spin department, Maheesh Theekshana and Wanindu Hasaranga are joined by Kamindu Mendis and Charith Asalanka.
Sri Lanka Playing XI: Nishan Madushka, Pathum Nissanka, Kusal Mendis, Kamindu Mendis, Charith Asalanka, Janith Liyanage, Milan Rathnayake, Wanindu Hasaranga, Maheesh Theekshana, Ishan Malinga, Asitha Fernando.
Parvez and Tanvir Make Their ODI Debuts
Despite his consistent run-scoring in domestic cricket, Mohammad Naim Sheikh still waits for his chance in the national side. In the first ODI, Parvez Hossain opens the innings with Tanzid Hasan.
This marks the debut ODI appearance for the left-handed opener. Bangladesh also handed a debut to left-arm spinner Tanvir Islam in the series opener at the Premadasa Stadium.
In the pace attack, Taskin Ahmed and Mustafizur Rahman are joined by Tanzim Hasan Sakib. Skipper Mehidy Hasan Miraz shares spin duties with Tanvir.
Parvez and Tanvir become Bangladesh’s 151st and 152nd players in ODI history respectively.
Bangladesh Playing XI: Tanzid Hasan, Parvez Hossain, Najmul Hossain Shanto, Litton Kumer Das, Towhid Hridoy, Mehidy Hasan Miraz, Zakir Ali, Tanzim Hasan, Tanvir Islam, Taskin Ahmed, Mustafizur Rahman.
Bangladesh were put to field after losing the toss
After winning the toss in both Tests, Bangladesh’s coin luck didn’t hold in the ODIs. In his first match as full-time captain, Mehidy Hasan Miraz lost the toss.
Sri Lankan captain Charith Asalanka chose to bat first. Bangladesh will begin the series chasing.
Bangladesh Eye Redemption in ODIs After Test Disappointment
Bangladesh had a frustrating Test series in Sri Lanka—drawing the first match and losing the second by an innings. Now, the colored clothing brings a fresh opportunity for redemption.
The ODI series begins Wednesday at 3 PM local time at Colombo’s Premadasa Stadium. Bangladesh are keen to turn the tide after a stretch of poor results.
Following a disappointing 2023 World Cup and a lackluster ICC Champions Trophy run, the Tigers have also struggled in recent bilateral series—affecting their ICC ranking.
For the first time since 2006, Bangladesh have slipped to No. 10 in the rankings. To qualify directly for the 2027 World Cup, they must climb back into the top 8. That now becomes captain Mehidy Hasan Miraz’s top priority over the next 18 months.
With senior players like Mushfiqur Rahim and Mahmudullah retiring after the Champions Trophy, a void has been left in the middle order. Miraz must now also take on the responsibility of grooming new talent for that crucial area before the next World Cup.
