Photo: Collected
Kusal Mendis and Sadeera Samarawickrama both notched up half-centuries, guiding Sri Lanka to an imposing total of 206 for six wickets in the first T20I of the three-match series against Bangladesh on Monday in Sylhet.
Opting to field first after winning the toss, Bangladesh got off to a promising start as Shoriful Islam claimed the first wicket in the very first over, signaling early pressure on Sri Lanka's batting lineup.
However, Bangladesh's early breakthroughs failed to seize the momentum as Sri Lanka swiftly recovered. Despite losing another wicket with the score at 37, Mendis and Samarawickrama orchestrated a foundational 96-run partnership for the third wicket, setting the stage for a commanding total.
Mendis departed after a brisk 59 off just 36 deliveries, while Samarawickrama remained unbeaten with a solid 61 off 48 balls. Captain Charith Asalanka's quickfire 44 off 21 balls, embellished with six sixes, bolstered Sri Lanka's innings.
For Bangladesh, Shoriful Islam, Taskin Ahmed, and Rishad Hossain each claimed a wicket for Bangladesh.
Messenger/Sumon
