Kusal Mendis’ century powered Sri Lanka to a series victory as Bangladesh collapsed well before completing their chase.”
Sri Lanka secured a 2-1 win in the three-match ODI series by beating Bangladesh by 99 runs in the decider on Tuesday in Pallekele.
Batting first after winning the toss, Sri Lanka posted 285 for 7 in 50 overs. The star of the innings was Kusal Mendis, who struck a brilliant 124 off 114 balls, hitting 18 fours. He stitched together a 124-run fourth-wicket stand with Charith Asalanka, who added 58 from 68 balls.
Bangladesh’s bowlers tightened the run flow in the final 10 overs, conceding just 63 runs, but the total was already challenging.
In reply, Bangladesh faltered early and never really recovered. They were bowled out for 186 in just 39.4 overs. Tanzid Hasan (17) and Najmul Hossain Shanto (0) fell within the first four overs, while opener Parvez Hossain scored a slow 28 before holing out.
Mehidy Hasan Miraz (28) got off to a positive start but gave his wicket away. Towhid Hridoy resisted with a fifty (51 off 78), but wickets kept tumbling at the other end. Jaker Ali contributed 27, but it wasn’t enough to avoid a heavy defeat.
For Sri Lanka, Dushmantha Chameera and Asitha Fernando picked up three wickets each, with support from Wanindu Hasaranga and Dunith Wellalage, who grabbed two apiece.
Match Summary
Sri Lanka – 285/7 in 50 overs (Kusal Mendis 124, Asalanka 58)
Bangladesh – 186 all out in 39.4 overs (Towhid Hridoy 51, Miraz 28)
Result – Sri Lanka won by 99 runs
Series – Sri Lanka win 2-1
Player of the Match – Kusal Mendis
Player of the Series – Kusal Mendis
The teams will now face off in a three-match T20I series starting Thursday, also in Pallekele.
