Colombo: A sensational collapse that saw Bangladesh lose seven wickets for just five runs led them to a crushing 77-run defeat to Sri Lanka in the three-match ODI series opener today at R Premadasa Stadium. According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Bangladesh, chasing a target of 245, appeared to be on course for victory with opener Tanzid Hasan Tamim and Najmul Hossain effectively countering the Sri Lankan attack, helping the side reach 100-1 in 16.2 overs. The turning point came when Shanto was run out for 23, attempting an unlikely second run. The spin duo of Wanindu Hasaranga and Kamindu Mendis then took center stage, decimating the visiting side in just 23 balls. During this period, Bangladesh lost six wickets with both bowlers claiming three wickets each, shattering the visitors' hopes of winning the game. Jaker Ali Anik delayed the inevitable with a 64-ball 51, featuring four fours and as many sixes, sharing a 62-run stand with the last two batters, Tanvir Islam and Mustafizur Rahman. Hasaranga fini shed with figures of 4-10 as Bangladesh was dismissed for 167 in 35.5 overs. Earlier, Sri Lankan skipper Charith Asalanka led his team to 244 all out in 49.2 overs with a commanding 106. His innings included two crucial partnerships, a 60-run stand with Kusal Mendis and a 64-run partnership with Janith Liyanage, bringing Sri Lanka closer to the 250-run mark. Bangladesh began their chase on a strong note with Parvez Hossain Emon making an impactful ODI debut. His fellow opener Tanzid Hasan Tamim added to the strong start, but Emon's fun was short-lived, falling to a short delivery for 13. Tanzid top-scored for Bangladesh with a 61-ball 62, which included nine fours and a six. Taskin Ahmed made an impressive return to the squad, claiming 4-47 and keeping Sri Lanka's total within reach by dismantling their top order early in the innings. Despite his efforts, it was Asalanka's calm and focused innings that anchored Sri Lanka's innings. He raised his second century against Bangladesh, contributing six fours and four sixes in his 123-ball 106. Though Sri Lanka fell short of the 250-run mark, their total was sufficient for a comfortable victory.
