In a thrilling start to the three-match ODI series, Sri Lanka registered a commanding 77-run victory over Bangladesh, scripting a world record for the largest ever win in ODIs after being bowled out for under 150 runs. The match, played at Sher-e-Bangla National Stadium in Mirpur on Tuesday, witnessed an extraordinary bowling display by Sri Lanka as Bangladesh crumbled to one of their lowest ODI totals at home.
Sri Lanka’s Struggle with the Bat
Opting to bat first, Sri Lanka were bowled out for a modest 149 runs in 37.1 overs on a pitch offering variable bounce and movement. Their innings summary included:
- Top scorer: Pathum Nissanka (38 off 55 balls) showing patience amid a disciplined Bangladeshi attack.
- Key contributions: Dhananjaya de Silva (25), Dasun Shanaka (21).
- Bangladesh’s bowling hero: Taskin Ahmed, who ripped through the Lankan middle order with figures of 4 for 28.
Shoriful Islam and Mehidy Hasan Miraz provided strong support with economical spells and crucial breakthroughs that kept Sri Lanka under pressure throughout the innings.
Bangladesh’s Historic Batting Collapse
In reply, Bangladesh’s chase turned into a nightmare as they were bowled out for just 72 runs in 22 overs, registering:
- Their second-lowest ODI total at home.
- Top scorer: Najmul Hossain Shanto (16), with no other batter crossing 15.
- Sri Lankan bowling brilliance: Dilshan Madushanka (3/14) and Maheesh Theekshana (3/19) dismantled Bangladesh’s top and middle order within the first 10 overs.
The Record: Largest Win Defending <150 Runs
Sri Lanka’s 77-run win is now the biggest ODI victory margin for any team defending a total below 150 runs, surpassing the previous record held by Zimbabwe who defeated Afghanistan by 58 runs defending 129 in Sharjah, 2015.
| Previous Record | Team | Opponent | Year | Runs Defended | Win Margin |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Zimbabwe | Afghanistan | 2015 | 129 | 58 runs |
| 2 | India | Bangladesh | 2004 | 129 | 46 runs |
| 3 | Sri Lanka | Bangladesh | 2025 | 149 | 77 runs (New Record) |
(Compiled from ICC ODI records)
Match Turning Points
- Madushanka’s early breakthroughs, dismissing Tanzid Hasan and Litton Das in his first two overs, rattled Bangladesh.
- Theekshana’s disciplined spin attack removed Shakib Al Hasan and Towhid Hridoy in quick succession.
- Bangladesh’s decision to bat aggressively on a difficult pitch backfired, with loose strokes leading to edges and bowled dismissals.
Captains’ Reactions
Sri Lanka Captain Dasun Shanaka:
“We knew 149 was below-par but our bowlers were exceptional today. They believed in the plan, hit the right lengths, and made it impossible for Bangladesh to settle.”
Bangladesh Captain Najmul Hossain Shanto:
“This loss is embarrassing. Our shot selection was poor and we didn’t apply ourselves. We let down our fans today.”
Fans and Experts React
The cricketing world was stunned by the scorecard, with fans expressing disbelief on social media. Former Bangladesh captain Mashrafe Mortaza criticised the team’s mindset:
“You cannot chase 150 like it’s a T20. Building partnerships is basic cricket.”
Sri Lanka’s Bowling: Stat Highlights
- First time Sri Lanka dismissed Bangladesh under 75 runs in ODIs.
- Madushanka’s 3/14 is his career-best ODI spell, cementing his place as Sri Lanka’s frontline seamer.
- Theekshana has now taken 50 ODI wickets, becoming the fastest Sri Lankan spinner to reach this milestone in terms of innings played.
Impact on ODI Series
With this win:
- Sri Lanka lead the 3-match series 1-0.
- Bangladesh will need significant regrouping to bounce back in the 2nd ODI scheduled for Thursday at the same venue.
- The series holds importance for both teams’ preparations ahead of the 2025 Champions Trophy qualifiers.
Concerns for Bangladesh
The batting collapse has exposed:
- Middle order instability post Mushfiqur Rahim’s retirement.
- Lack of adaptability to challenging pitches.
- Over-dependence on Shakib and Litton Das for rescue acts.
Sri Lanka’s Road Ahead
Coach Chris Silverwood hailed the bowling unit’s performance but urged the batters to step up:
“Defending under 150 isn’t sustainable. Our bowlers saved us today, but our top order must take responsibility in upcoming games.”
Conclusion
Sri Lanka’s historic 77-run win after posting a sub-150 total sets the tone for a competitive series while raising critical questions about Bangladesh’s batting temperament at home. As both teams prepare for the second ODI, the focus will remain on Bangladesh’s batting regrouping and Sri Lanka’s consistency to capitalise on their bowling strengths.
Disclaimer: This article is based on live match data, player statements, and official ICC records as of July 2, 2025. Readers are advised to follow updated team announcements for the next ODI in the series.
