It was a series decider at the Pallekele International Cricket Stadium, where Bangladesh had the opportunity to claim their first-ever ODI series win on Sri Lankan soil. However, Sri Lanka produced a dominant performance to secure a 99-run victory and take the series 2–1.
The hosts won the toss and elected to bat first, but suffered an early setback with Nishan Madushka dismissed in the fourth over. However, Kusal Mendis, who would go on to be the star of the innings, steadied the innings alongside Pathum Nissanka, putting on 56 runs for the second wicket. After Nissanka fell for 35, Mendis was joined by skipper Charith Asalanka, and the experienced pair added a crucial 124-run partnership off just 117 balls.
This stand not only rebuilt the innings but also maintained a strong scoring rate. Asalanka contributed a composed 58 off 68 deliveries, including nine boundaries, while Mendis went on to score 124 off 114 balls, notching up his sixth ODI century at a strike rate of 108.77. Sri Lanka ended their innings on a competitive 285 for 7 from 50 overs.
In reply, Bangladesh got off to a shaky start, losing two wickets with just 20 runs on the board. Towhid Hridoy offered resistance, stitching together two important partnerships—42 runs with Parvez Hossain Emon and 43 with Mehidy Hasan Miraz. The right-hander fought hard for his 51, but the run chase never really took off due to the regular loss of wickets, and the visitors were eventually bowled out well short of the target.
Sri Lanka’s bowling unit delivered a well-rounded performance. Asitha Fernando and Dushmantha Chameera led the attack with three wickets apiece, while Dunith Wellalage and Wanindu Hasaranga provided strong support with two wickets each.
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