Sri Lanka launched their ODI series against Bangladesh with a resounding 77-run victory, driven by a record-breaking bowling performance from spinners Wanindu Hasaranga and Kamindu Mendis.
The hosts gained an early series lead after engineering one of the most dramatic collapses in ODI history, reducing Bangladesh from a strong position to a stunning downfall.
Bangladesh appeared well on track during their chase of Sri Lanka’s target of 245 runs. By the 17th over, they had reached 100 for the loss of just one wicket, with Tanzid Hasan scoring a solid 67 and Najmul Hossain Shanto adding 23.
However, the momentum swung abruptly after the introduction of spin. Hasaranga and Mendis dismantled the batting line-up, triggering a collapse that saw Bangladesh lose seven wickets for just five runs, slumping to 105/8 in just four overs.
The meltdown set a new record for the fewest runs scored between the fall of the second and eighth wickets in men’s ODI cricket. It also marked the second-worst seven-wicket collapse ever recorded in the format.
Analysts described the sudden collapse as a combination of poor shot selection, pressure-induced errors, and sharp fielding from Sri Lanka.
Fast bowler Taskin Ahmed later attributed the disaster to early complacency, crucial run-outs, and mounting panic that spread through the batting order.
Earlier in the day, Sri Lankan skipper Charith Asalanka laid the foundation with a captain’s knock, scoring 106 off 123 balls. His composed innings, which included six boundaries and four sixes, was instrumental in lifting Sri Lanka to a defendable total of 244. His efforts earned him the Player of the Match award.
Asalanka expressed confidence in the team’s fielding performance, acknowledging that they were slightly short with the bat but made up for it with exceptional effort in the field.
He also pointed to Sri Lanka’s recent consistency in ODI cricket, including wins over top teams like India and Australia, as evidence of their growing strength in the format.
With the second ODI set for Saturday in Colombo, attention now turns to whether Bangladesh can regroup and level the series or if Sri Lanka will extend their dominance through spin.