By Kusal Mendis’ Blistering 86 Guides Sri Lanka to Series Victory Against Bangladesh
Sri Lanka clinched the three-match T20I series 2-1 against Bangladesh, thanks to a dominant performance led by Kusal Mendis and Nuwan Thushara. Mendis played a crucial role in Sri Lanka’s victory, scoring a brisk 86 off just 55 balls.
Mendis Shines in Sri Lanka’s Innings
Facing the Bangladesh bowlers after being put in to bat, Mendis stood out with a flurry of boundaries and sixes, while the rest of the Sri Lankan batting lineup struggled to build partnerships. Despite early wickets falling around him, Mendis continued to attack, dispatching the ball to all parts of the ground. He reached his half-century with a series of boundaries and sixes, showcasing his aggressive intent.
Sri Lanka’s Middle Order Falters, Shanaka Provides Late Impetus
After Mendis’s dismissal, Sri Lanka’s middle order failed to capitalize on the momentum. Dasun Shanaka, with a quick-fire 19 off 9 balls, provided some late fireworks, but the lack of support from the other end restricted Sri Lanka to 174/7 in their 20 overs.
Bangladesh Stumble in Chase, Thushara’s Fiery Spell
In response, Bangladesh got off to a disastrous start, losing half their side within the powerplay overs. Thushara wreaked havoc with the ball, picking up crucial wickets including a hat-trick, as Bangladesh struggled to cope with the swinging deliveries. At the end of the powerplay, Bangladesh were reeling at 25/5, with the match slipping away from their grasp.
Rishad’s Fighting Fifty, Taskin’s Late Charge
Despite the early collapse, Rishad Hossain fought valiantly, scoring a quick-fire 53 off 30 balls, including several big hits. He found some support from Taskin Ahmed, who played a cameo of 31 off 21 balls. However, their efforts were in vain as Bangladesh fell short, eventually getting bowled out for 146 in 19.4 overs.
Thushara’s fifer and Mendis’s blistering knock ensured Sri Lanka’s victory, sealing the series win against Bangladesh.
Brief Scores: Sri Lanka 174/7 in 20 overs (Kusal Mendis 86, Dasun Shanaka 19; Taskin Ahmed 2-25, Rishad Hossain 2-35) beat Bangladesh 146 in 19.4 overs (Rishad Hossain 53, Taskin Ahmed 31; Nuwan Thushara 5-20, Wanindu Hasaranga 2-32) by 28 runs
