Tigers turn around against Sri Lanka to level T20I series

Bangladesh staged a remarkable turnaround in the second T20I against Sri Lanka in Dambulla, clinching an 83-run victory to level the series after a heavy defeat in the first match. The Bangladeshi bowlers, led by Rishad Hossain, complemented an impressive batting performance to bowl out Sri Lanka for just 94 runs in 15.2 overs.

After losing the toss and being put in to bat, Bangladesh posted a competitive 177/7 in their 20 overs. Captain Liton Das led from the front with a match-defining 76 runs off 50 balls, earning him the Man of the Match award. Shamim Hossain Patwary contributed 48 runs, while Towhid Hridoy added 31 runs to bolster the total.

In response, Sri Lanka's batting collapsed under relentless pressure from Bangladesh's bowlers. Rishad Hossain was the standout performer, taking 3 wickets for 18 runs in 3.2 overs, effectively dismantling the Sri Lankan middle order. Mustafizur Rahman and Shariful Islam also claimed 3 wickets each, while Mohammad Saifuddin took 2 wickets, and Mehedi Hasan Miraz chipped in with 1 wicket. Sri Lanka's Pathum Nissanka offered some resistance with 32 runs, and Dasun Shanaka scored 20, but no other batter reached double figures, leading to their dismissal for 94 runs.

After a 154-run defeat in the first T20I, Bangladesh made three changes to their playing XI, addressing the weaknesses in their lineup. The revamped team displayed improved cohesion and execution, with the bowlers maintaining the consistency set by the batters. The strategic adjustments proved decisive, as Bangladesh dominated both batting and bowling to secure the victory.

Key performances

Liton Das: 76 runs off 50 balls, providing a solid foundation for Bangladesh's total.

Rishad Hossain: 3 wickets for 18 runs, breaking the back of Sri Lanka’s batting lineup.

Mustafizur Rahman and Shariful Islam: 3 wickets each, maintaining pressure throughout the innings.

Shamim Hossain Patwary: 48 runs, contributing to a formidable batting effort.