Bangladesh triumphs over Sri Lanka in thrilling T20 World Cup clash

In an exhilarating encounter at the ongoing T20 World Cup 2024 in Dallas, Bangladesh secured a two-wicket victory over Sri Lanka on Saturday. Chasing a modest target of 125, Bangladesh crossed the finish line with six balls to spare, despite a rocky start.

Young spinner Rishad Hossain delivered a career-best performance, earning the Player of the Match award for his exceptional bowling. Rishad's figures of 3/22, combined with fast bowler Taskin Ahmed’s 2/25, were instrumental in restricting Sri Lanka to 124/9. Despite a solid start from Pathum Nissanka, who scored 47, Bangladesh’s disciplined bowling ensured regular wickets and kept Sri Lanka's score in check.

Rishad’s pivotal moment came when he claimed the consecutive wickets of Charith Asalanka (19) and Wanindu Hasaranga (0), shifting the game's momentum in Bangladesh's favor. Although Angelo Mathews (16) attempted a late surge, Bangladesh effectively contained the island nation to a below-par total.

The run chase began turbulently for Bangladesh, losing two early wickets and stumbling to 28/3 by the sixth over. However, Towhid Hridoy (40 off 20) and Litton Das (36 off 38) steadied the innings with a crucial 63-run partnership for the fourth wicket. Sri Lanka’s Nuwan Thushara kept the pressure on with remarkable figures of 4/18, turning the match into a nail-biter.

With two overs remaining and Bangladesh needing 11 runs with only two wickets in hand, the tension was palpable. The decisive moment came when Mahmudullah dispatched a full toss for six, easing the nerves of Bangladesh fans. Mahmudullah’s 16 off 13 balls, alongside Tanzim Hasan Sakib (1* off 4), ensured Bangladesh clinched their first win of the tournament with a two-wicket victory.