Bangladesh fall short again as Sri Lanka seal WT20I series

Bangladesh once again faltered in a 150-plus run chase as Sri Lanka sealed the WT20I series with a 21-run win in the second match at the Sylhet International Cricket Stadium on Thursday.

The defeat follows Bangladesh’s 25-run loss in the opening match at the same venue, where they failed to chase 162. With the series already decided, the third and final WT20I on Saturday will be a dead rubber.

Chasing 155 for victory, Bangladesh’s innings never quite found the urgency needed in T20 cricket. The top order managed to get starts but could not accelerate when required. Sharmin Akhter anchored the effort with an unbeaten 44 off 47 deliveries, while Juairiya Ferdous scored 29 off 23 balls and Dilara Akter contributed a steady 23 off 23. However, the overall scoring rate remained below par, leaving too much for the lower order to do.

As the required rate climbed, Bangladesh’s middle order once again failed to shift gears. The hosts eventually finished on 133 for five in their allotted 20 overs. For Sri Lanka, Kavisha Dilhari stood out with the ball, taking two wickets for just 15 runs in a tight four-over spell.

Earlier in the day, Sri Lanka had posted 154 for four after being sent in to bat. Harshitha Samarawickrama led the charge with a quick 49 off 29 balls, while captain Chamari Athapaththu added 42 off 37. Useful contributions from Imesha Dulani (27) and Nilakshika Silva (22 not out) helped the visitors reach a competitive total.

Bangladesh’s bowlers shared the wickets, with Fariha Trisna, Sultana Khatun, Nahida Akter and Ritu Moni each striking once.