Sri Lanka perseveres 1-0 up and a thriller sealed by Jaker Ali scare

In Sylhet, Sri Lanka secured a narrow three-run victory against Bangladesh in the first T20i, with the match culminating in the last over. Chasing 207, Bangladesh needed 12 runs in the final over, but Sri Lanka’s Dasun Shanaka delivered precise lines and lengths, leading to a crucial win.

Jaker Ali, on strike for Bangladesh, required ten runs from four balls. However, Shanaka remained composed, delivering a full off-stump ball. Jaker attempted a shot, but the ball hit the bottom of the bat, leading to a low catch by stand-in captain Charith Asalanka at long-off.

Sri Lanka’s batting efforts laid the foundation for the victory, posting 206 for 3 despite missing key players. Kusal Mendis and Sadeera Samarawickrama contributed brisk fifties, while Charith Asalanka played a decisive unbeaten innings, hitting six sixes in his 44 off 21 balls.

Sri Lanka’s dominance in the powerplay, exposing Bangladesh’s top order. Angelo Mathews secured two breakthroughs, and Sri Lanka’s bowlers maintained pressure. Despite Mahmudullah’s aggressive innings, Jaker Ali’s late surge was not enough, and Sri Lanka emerged victorious in a thrilling encounter.