When it comes to T20 fireworks, Sri Lanka vs Bangladesh just delivered a firecracker. The first T20I in Pallekele saw Kusal Mendis & Co. chase down 155 with a cool over to spare, while Bangladesh’s bowlers looked like they were playing catch-up from ball one.
And let’s just say: if cricket was scored on vibes, Sri Lanka won by a hundred.
🔥 Mendis & Nissanka Go Nuclear in the PowerPlay
If you blinked, you probably missed it. Sri Lanka’s opening pair—Pathum Nissanka and Kusal Mendis—unleashed a chaos storm on Bangladesh’s bowlers, putting up 78 runs in just 4.3 overs.
Imagine a demolition derby, but with cricket balls.
- Nissanka: 42 off 16 balls (with a six that probably entered low orbit)
- Mendis: 73 off 51, playing the anchor and the wrecking ball in equal measure
This was Sri Lanka’s highest ever PowerPlay total in T20Is. Taskin Ahmed’s 32-run carnage across two overs might have made Bangladesh fans reach for the panic button—and then realize it was already broken.
🎯 Bangladesh Batters Falter, Yet Hang On
To be fair, Bangladesh didn’t start poorly. Parvez Hossain Emon (38) and Mohammad Naim (32*) provided some base. But the moment Litton Das fell LBW to Vandersay for a sluggish 6 off 11, the middle order felt like a rickety Jenga tower—one push away from collapse.
Mehidy Hasan and Shamim Hossain added some late zest, especially Shamim’s 14* off 5, but 154/5 never really looked like a defendable total.
Especially not with the way the Sri Lankan batters were swinging like they were auditioning for the next Fast & Furious movie.
🧠 Captain Speaks: What They Said After the Game
Charith Asalanka (Sri Lanka)
“We chased because the LPL told us: short boundaries, fast outfield, chase is king.”
Also: praised Vandersay for stepping up in the absence of Wanindu. Mental depth, unlocked.
Litton Das (Bangladesh)
“170 would’ve been better.”
Also: subtly threw shade at his own top order for not stepping up. (Looking at you, mirror.)
🎲 Betting Perspective: 188BET Odds Recap
Before the match, 188BET had Sri Lanka as slight favorites at 1.75, with Bangladesh at 2.10. Live odds shifted dramatically after the first 3 overs, with Sri Lanka’s win probability jumping to over 85% by the time Nissanka hit his second six.
Props bets?
- First 6 Overs Total Runs (Over 60.5): ✅ Easy money
- Player to Score 50+ – Kusal Mendis: ✅ Cha-ching
- Man of the Match – Mendis: ✅ 188BET nailed it again
🔍 What’s Next? Dambulla Showdown on July 13
Sri Lanka now heads to Dambulla with a chance to seal the series. Bangladesh? They’ll need more than prayers—they’ll need top-order runs, sharper death bowling, and maybe a cricketing exorcism.
❓FAQ: People Also Ask
Sri Lanka won by 7 wickets, chasing down 155 in just 19 overs with Kusal Mendis scoring 73.
The opening PowerPlay. Sri Lanka’s 83/1 after 6 overs completely flipped the game on its head.
Their bowling lacked bite in the early overs, and their batters failed to capitalize in the middle innings.
Kusal Mendis, for his blistering 73 off 51 balls, anchoring and accelerating when needed.
Preliminary odds lean in favor of Sri Lanka again. For updated live odds and prop bets, check [188BET’s official cricket market].
Match videos are available on the official broadcasters’ platform and highlight reels on YouTube.
✅ Conclusion: Same Rivals, Different Energy
In the latest Sri Lanka vs Bangladesh showdown, it was clear who brought the heavy artillery. Sri Lanka’s top order looked like they were chasing down mangoes in a backyard match—relaxed, ruthless, and relentless.
As the teams head to Dambulla, Bangladesh will need to fix their bowling—and fast. Meanwhile, Sri Lanka might just be looking for a broom to sweep this series.
🔥 Think Bangladesh can bounce back? Drop your thoughts below and check out live odds at 188BET now!
