July 5, 2025: Sri Lanka will be aiming to seal the three-match ODI series against Bangladesh today as the two teams clash in the second encounter at the R. Premadasa Stadium. The hosts currently lead 1-0 after a commanding 77-run victory in the first match, powered by a brilliant century from skipper Charith Asalanka and a dramatic collapse from the visitors.
Asalanka won the toss and elected to bat first in the opening ODI, anchoring the innings with a masterful 106 off 110 balls, which featured four sixes and five boundaries. Despite wickets falling at regular intervals around him, the captain held firm, helping Sri Lanka post a competitive total of 244 before being bowled out with four balls remaining.
Bangladesh started their chase on a confident note, reaching 100/1 by the 17th over, with Tanzid Hasan and Najmul Hossain Shanto building a promising 71-run stand. However, the momentum shifted dramatically when Milan Rathnayake’s sharp fielding led to Shanto’s run-out on 23, triggering a collapse that saw Bangladesh lose seven wickets for just five runs.
From a position of strength, the visitors stumbled to 167 all out in just 35.5 overs, handing Sri Lanka a comfortable victory.
As both teams return to the field for the second ODI, Sri Lanka will look to ride their momentum and clinch the series, while Bangladesh must regroup quickly to keep their hopes alive.
The match is being played under overcast conditions in Colombo, with some afternoon showers in the forecast, which could influence proceedings.