Sri Lanka vs Bangladesh: Final ODI Preview and Key Players
Match Overview
On July 8, 2025, Sri Lanka will take on Bangladesh in the concluding ODI of their three-match series at the Pallekele International Cricket Stadium, starting at 2:30 PM IST.
Sri Lanka's Performance
Sri Lanka, captained by Charith Asalanka, began the series with a remarkable win in the first ODI but faced a narrow 16-run defeat in the second match at the same venue. Chasing a target of 249 runs, they were bowled out for 232. Despite Kusal Mendis and Janith Liyanage scoring half-centuries, the team fell short. Asitha Fernando's impressive 4-wicket haul was a highlight, but the team must learn from their mistakes to secure a series victory in the final match.
Bangladesh's Ambition
Under the captaincy of Mehidy Hasan Miraz, Bangladesh aims for their first ODI series win in Sri Lanka. They showcased a strong performance in the second match, with young players stepping up. Parvez Hossain Emon and Towhid Hridoy both scored half-centuries, while Shamim Hossain excelled with the ball. With a significant opportunity at hand, Bangladesh is eager to clinch their inaugural ODI series victory on Sri Lankan soil.
Pitch Conditions
The Pallekele Stadium is known for being a pace-friendly pitch, yet it also supports high-scoring games. Fast bowlers can expect assistance early on, but as the match progresses, batsmen will likely capitalize on the conditions to score runs.
Weather Forecast
The weather is expected to be partly cloudy, with temperatures ranging from 20 to 28 degrees Celsius. While there is a possibility of rain, it is anticipated that the match will proceed without significant interruptions.
Head-to-Head Record
| SL vs BAN head-to-head (in ODIs) | |
| Matches Played | 59 |
| Won by Sri Lanka | 44 |
| Won by Bangladesh | 13 |
| No Result | 2 |
| Tied | 0 |
Probable XI for the 3rd ODI
Sri Lanka: Pathum Nissanka, Nishan Madushka, Kusal Mendis (wk), Jaynith Liyanage, Charith Asalanka (c), Kamindu Mendis, Wanindu Hasaranga, Dushmantha Chameera, Maheesh Theekshana, Asitha Fernando, Dunith Wellalage
Bangladesh: Tanzid Hasan, Najmal Hossain Shanto, Shamim Hossain, Towhid Hridoy, Mehidy Hasan Miraz (c), Jaker Ali (wk), Tanvir Islam, Tanzim Hasan Sakib, Mustafizur Rahman, Taskin Ahmed, Parvez Hossain Emon
Key Players to Watch
Top Wicketkeeper
- Kusal Mendis | SL: With significant experience, Mendis has performed well against Bangladesh, scoring 45 runs in the first ODI and a half-century in the second. His inclusion could enhance your fantasy team's chances.
Top Batters
- Janith Liyanage | SL: After scoring 29 and 78 runs in the first two matches, Liyanage aims to maintain his form in the final match.
- Najmul Hossain Shanto | BAN: Shanto has an impressive record against Sri Lanka, with 379 runs in just 7 ODIs. He is a valuable addition to any fantasy lineup.
Top All-Rounders
- Wanindu Hasaranga | SL: A crucial player, Hasaranga has made significant contributions with both bat and ball, including a four-wicket haul in the first ODI.
- Charith Asalanka | SL: The captain's performance in the first ODI was pivotal, scoring 106 runs. His consistent form makes him a must-pick.
Top Bowlers
- Asitha Fernando | SL: Fernando's four-wicket haul in the second ODI showcased his ability to trouble the Bangladeshi batsmen.
- Taskin Ahmed | BAN: Ahmed has been a standout bowler, with 115 wickets in 80 matches, including a four-wicket haul in the first ODI.