Dhaka: Kusal Mendis struck a 51-ball 73 as Sri Lanka defeated Bangladesh by seven wickets in the first T20 game at Pallekele International Cricket Stadium. Chasing a target of 155 runs, Sri Lanka started strongly with Mendis and Pathum Nissanka putting up 78 runs in just 28 balls, a partnership that helped secure a 1-0 lead in the three-match series.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Nissanka blasted a 16-ball 42, hitting five fours and three sixes, before falling to Mehidy Hasan Miraz, who finished with 1-24 in four overs. The Bangladesh bowlers struggled to contain the Sri Lankan batsmen, with Taskin Ahmed conceding 43 runs in three overs without taking a wicket.
Mendis, who also hit five fours and three sixes, was dismissed by Saifuddin with Sri Lanka needing only seven runs for victory. Saifuddin, playing his first match in a year, provided some control with figures of 1-22 in three overs. Avishka Fernando and captain Charith Asalanka completed the chase, with Asalanka hitting a six off Tanzim Hasan Sakib to seal the win at 159-3 in 19 overs.
Kusal Perera contributed 24 runs off 25 balls before being dismissed by leg-spinner Rishad Hossain, who claimed 1-24 in four overs. Despite regrouping in the middle overs, Bangladesh’s bowlers could not overcome the early onslaught by Sri Lanka.
Earlier, Bangladesh posted a modest 154-5 after being sent to bat first on a pitch that offered little assistance to bowlers. Opener Parvez Hossain Emon top-scored with 38 off 22 balls, including five fours and a six. Naim Sheikh, making a comeback to international cricket, remained unbeaten on 32 off 29 balls, while Mehidy Hasan Miraz added a cautious 29 runs.
Shamim Patwari’s quick-fire 14 not out from five balls helped Bangladesh surpass the 150-run mark. Maheesh Theekshana was the pick of the Sri Lankan bowlers, taking 2-37. Emon’s dismissal by Theekshana marked a turning point, as Bangladesh’s batsmen struggled to maintain momentum thereafter.
The second ODI is scheduled for Sunday at Dambulla.