Kandy, July 10, 2025 – The electrifying atmosphere of Pallekele International Cricket Stadium is set to host the first of three high-stakes T20I clashes as Sri Lanka and Bangladesh launch their latest chapter in what has become a thrilling subcontinental rivalry.
With the Test and ODI legs of the tour already completed, all eyes now shift to the shortest format. Having won the ODI series 2-1, Sri Lanka carries momentum into the T20I phase, bolstered by a strong home record. The islanders have clinched four of their last six T20I series at home, with their only setbacks being a series draw against New Zealand and a whitewash by India in 2024.
Led by Charith Asalanka, Sri Lanka’s 17-man squad mixes rising stars with seasoned stalwarts. Asalanka’s stability at No. 4 is crucial, while Wanindu Hasaranga’s all-round brilliance could be decisive again. Mystery spinner Maheesh Theekshana, along with veterans like Kusal Perera and Dasun Shanaka, provide experience and tactical acumen. Pacer Eshan Malinga’s debut adds intrigue—his slinging action and express pace could be a game-changer. He joins the fiery trio of Pathirana, Thushara, and Binura Fernando, making Sri Lanka’s bowling attack one to watch this T20I series.
For Bangladesh, 2025 has been a rough ride in T20Is, with disappointing series losses to Pakistan and the UAE. However, a commanding 3-0 sweep over the West Indies earlier this year reminds fans of their potential. Under new skipper Litton Das, the Tigers are desperate for a turnaround.
The Bangladesh squad is a balanced mix. Batters Mehidy Hasan Miraz and Tawhid Hridoy hold the key to navigating spinning conditions, while the bowling attack boasts variety: Mustafizur’s guile, Taskin’s raw pace, and Shoriful’s left-arm angle. Spin will be crucial on Sri Lankan pitches, and the likes of Nasum Ahmed and Rishad Hossain must step up if Bangladesh are to make an impact in the T20I format.
Pallekele, despite being Sri Lanka’s home ground, hasn’t been too kind to them in T20Is, with just two wins in their last ten outings here. Bangladesh, on the other hand, has a perfect 3-0 record at this venue—an edge they’ll hope to extend.
With both teams eyeing redemption and dominance, this T20I series promises drama, firepower, and the unmistakable flavor of South Asian cricketing rivalry.