We’re gearing up for an electrifying final in the Tri-Series as Bangladesh and Sri Lanka clash in the vibrant city of Mirpur.
Despite suffering a heavy defeat to Sri Lanka last Thursday, Bangladesh remains hopeful that this setback won’t overshadow their strong performance throughout the round-robin, where they remained unbeaten until then.
Sri Lanka, on the other hand, sees that victory as a solid lead-up to the final rather than just a consolation in a dead rubber, seizing the momentum heading into the big day.
Match Details: Bangladesh v Sri Lanka | Saturday, 27 January | Shere Bangla National Stadium, Mirpur | 8:00
Match Odds
Bangladesh 67/100 | Tie 35/1 | Sri Lanka 5/4
Bangladesh Insights
Captain Mashrafe Mortaza has been clear in demanding more contributions from the middle order. The likes of Tamim Iqbal and Shakib Al Hasan are crucial, but if they falter, rising players such as Mohammad Mahmudullah, Sabbir Rahman, and Nasir Hossain will need to shine on Saturday.
The Tigers have tried to balance their reliance on Al Hasan, but recent performances have exposed some weaknesses, especially around shot selection and keeping the opposition’s openers in check—areas that need urgent improvement.
Bangladesh supporters hope this final won’t follow past patterns where the team failed to cross the ultimate hurdle, despite a strong journey. Still, playing at home, they are favourites to clinch the title, though Sri Lanka poses a formidable challenge.
Sri Lanka Preview
Sri Lanka aims to claim the trophy even without stars Angelo Mathews and Lasith Malinga, showcasing their squad’s depth and resilience.
Skipper Dinesh Chandimal praises his team’s dedication to strategies, but warns against predictability; adaptability will be key if the game’s flow changes unexpectedly.
Though Bangladesh wrestle with middle order instability, Sri Lanka’s batsmen from the third to sixth positions were untested in their latest encounter, placing heavy expectations on Kusal Mendis and his teammates to deliver under pressure.
Spin bowling, especially the left-arm wrist spin of Lakshan Sandakan, will be vital in conditions that have so far produced relatively low totals, with just three scores above 220 in twelve innings. The hosts will need a smart game plan to counter Bangladesh’s aggressive batting.
Final Thoughts: Bangladesh 67/100
Historically, Bangladesh has tasted victory against Sri Lanka only six times in intermediate formats, but with four wins in their last 15 contests, they’re keen to make it five—proving they can break their old records on home soil.
Stay tuned and follow us on Twitter for live updates, in-depth previews, fixtures, and results from this captivating final.
