The stage is set for a high-stakes finish as Sri Lanka (SL) and Bangladesh (BAN) gear up for the final ODI of their three-match series, locked at 1-1 after two contrasting contests. The third and final clash will be played on Tuesday, July 8, at the Pallekele International Cricket Stadium, with both sides eager to clinch the series before shifting their focus to the T20Is in this multi-format tour.
Series so far: a tale of two games
Sri Lanka got off to a flying start in the opening ODI, registering a comfortable 77-run victory. Charith Asalanka led from the front with a brilliant century while Wanindu Hasaranga’s four-wicket haul dismantled the Bangladesh batting line-up. However, Bangladesh bounced back strongly in the second ODI, showing great character and composure under pressure. The visitors posted a fighting total, thanks to Parvez Hossain Emon’s composed knock of 67 runs at the top, and defended it successfully with left-arm spinner Tanvir Islam claiming a stunning five-wicket haul. His spell proved to be the game-changer, restricting Sri Lanka’s chase and leveling the series.
Teams Overview
Sri Lanka will rely heavily on their experienced players to deliver in this must-win encounter. Skipper Charith Asalanka’s form with the bat will be crucial again, along with contributions from the likes of Pathum Nissanka and Kusal Mendis. With the ball, leg-spinner Wanindu Hasaranga has been exceptional so far, claiming seven wickets at an average of 10.00 in the series. His ability to break partnerships and put pressure on the middle order will be key to Sri Lanka’s plans.
Bangladesh, on the other hand, will aim to build on the momentum from their hard-fought win. Captain Mehidy Hasan Miraz has shown great leadership, while Parvez Hossain Emon’s steady starts at the top have provided much-needed stability. Tanvir Islam’s spell in the second ODI will give the visitors confidence that their bowling attack can trouble Sri Lanka on any surface.
Head-to-Head Record
Historically, Sri Lanka has enjoyed the upper hand in ODIs between these two sides. Out of the 59 matches played so far, Sri Lanka has won 44 while Bangladesh has won 13, with two matches ending without a result. Bangladesh, however, will be encouraged by their recent fightback and will look to add to their tally.
Match Details
-
Fixture: Sri Lanka vs Bangladesh, 3rd ODI, Bangladesh tour of Sri Lanka 2025
-
Venue: Pallekele International Cricket Stadium
-
Date & Time: Tuesday, July 08, 2:30 pm (IST)
-
Live Broadcast: FanCode (App & Website)
Pitch Report
The surface at Pallekele is expected to provide a fair contest between bat and ball. Fast bowlers could find some swing and seam movement early on when the pitch is harder and the ball is new, but the conditions are likely to ease out as the innings progresses, offering more opportunities for batters to build big scores. Spinners could also come into play during the middle overs, especially if the pitch starts to grip and slow down.
Probable Playing XIs
Sri Lanka (SL):
Pathum Nissanka, Nishan Madushka, Kusal Mendis (wk), Kamindu Mendis, Charith Asalanka (c), Janith Liyanage, Dunith Wellalage, Wanindu Hasaranga, Maheesh Theekshana, Dushmantha Chameera, Asitha Fernando
Bangladesh (BAN):
Parvez Hossain Emon, Tanzid Hasan Tamim, Najmul Hossain Shanto, Towhid Hridoy, Shamim Hossain, Mehidy Hasan Miraz (c), Jaker Ali (wk), Tanzim Hasan Sakib, Tanvir Islam, Mustafizur Rahman, Hasan Mahmud
Key Players to Watch
Parvez Hossain Emon:
The young wicketkeeper-batter impressed with his composed knock in the second ODI. If he can provide another solid foundation at the top, Bangladesh’s middle order will have the platform to push for a competitive total.
Wanindu Hasaranga:
Sri Lanka’s ace leg-spinner has been the standout performer with the ball so far. With seven wickets in two matches, his variations and attacking mindset could once again be the difference between the two sides.
Probable Match Scenarios
-
Scenario 1: If Sri Lanka wins the toss and bats first, they are expected to target a total in the range of 255–265. With a solid top order and an in-form middle order, they could well defend it given their bowling resources.
-
Scenario 2: If Bangladesh bats first, they would aim for a total around 250–260. Their bowlers, especially Tanvir Islam and Mustafizur Rahman, could then put Sri Lanka’s chase under pressure with early wickets and tight spells in the middle overs.
Today’s Match Prediction
Given the balanced nature of the pitch and how the series has unfolded so far, the team batting first is likely to have the advantage. Both sides have match-winners who can tilt the game in their favour, but Sri Lanka will start as slight favourites at home, especially with the experience they have in conditions like these. However, if Bangladesh’s top order clicks again and their spinners find some purchase off the surface, they could well pull off an upset.
All signs point towards an exciting finish as these two competitive sides fight it out for ODI supremacy in Pallekele before the T20 leg begins. A close contest is on the cards, and fans will be hoping for a thriller to wrap up the 50-over series.