In a warm-up match for the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2023, Bangladesh secured a convincing seven-wicket victory over Sri Lanka at the Barsapara Cricket Stadium.
This encounter marked the third meeting between Bangladesh and Sri Lanka in less than a month, with the previous two matches during the Asia Cup ending in favor of the Sri Lankan team. However, this time, the tables turned in Guwahati as Sri Lanka won the toss and chose to bat first, initially appearing to make the right decision.
Sri Lanka’s opening pair, Pathum Nissanka and Kusal Perera, set the stage with a century-strong partnership. Nissanka showcased his prowess with nine boundaries in his 64-ball 68, while Perera contributed with six fours.
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Perera, on his way to a potentially significant score, encountered a setback when he injured his shoulder early in the 10th over and had to retire hurt. This left head coach Chris Silverwood concerned about his fitness ahead of their opening game against South Africa on October 7. Kusal Mendis replaced Perera but fell early, caught by Najmul Hossain off Nasum Ahmed after scoring 22.
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Bangladesh further strengthened their position in the match by taking two more wickets before the halfway mark of Sri Lanka’s innings, including the key dismissal of Nissanka for 68. Dhananjaya de Silva was the only notable contributor for Sri Lanka, scoring a watchful 55 from 79 balls.
Sri Lanka concluded their innings at 263 for the loss of all wickets from 49.1 overs, setting a reachable target for Bangladesh. Bangladesh’s openers quickly began the pursuit.
Liton Das played aggressively, hitting ten fours in a fluent 61 before losing his wicket with the score at 131 for one. However, Bangladesh maintained their composure and control throughout the innings. Captain Mehidy Hasan Miraz anchored the run chase with an unbeaten 67, while Tanzid Hasan, the other opener, top-scored with 84. They comfortably achieved the target with eight overs to spare.
Unfortunately, rain prevented any play between Afghanistan and South Africa, resulting in the match being abandoned without a ball bowled. In upcoming matches, Afghanistan will face Sri Lanka, while South Africa will take on New Zealand.
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