After a disappointing run in both the Test and ODI series, Bangladesh’s troubles continued in the T20I format against Sri Lanka, as they suffered a comprehensive 7-wicket defeat in the opening match of the series. With the second T20I scheduled for today (Sunday), the Tigers are under pressure to bounce back. A loss would mean handing over the T20I series as well, something Bangladesh will be desperate to avoid.
Liton Das, who has been struggling with the bat lately, failed again in the first T20I, scoring just 6 runs off 11 balls. Despite his recent form, Liton has been entrusted with the captaincy in this format. Notably, he was dropped from the playing XI in the final two ODIs due to his poor run, but head coach Phil Simmons continues to back him for leadership and a turnaround in form.
Interestingly, heading into this short-format series, Bangladesh held an even record against Sri Lanka on Sri Lankan soil winning three out of six T20Is played there. In total T20I encounters between the two sides, Sri Lanka leads with 12 wins to Bangladesh’s 6 from 18 matches. The numbers may not heavily favor the Tigers, but they offer some hope for a comeback.
The second T20I will be played at 7:30 PM Bangladesh time at the Rangiri Dambulla International Stadium. Ahead of the game, there is speculation around changes to Bangladesh’s playing XI. Middle-order batsman Zaker Ali, who missed the first match, is expected to make a return. Left-arm pacer Mustafizur Rahman may also replace Taskin Ahmed in the bowling lineup.
Bangladesh probable playing XI:
Tanzid Hasan Tamim, Parvez Hossain Emon, Liton Das (captain), Towhid Hridoy, Zaker Ali Anik, Shamim Hossain Patwary, Mehedi Hasan Miraz, Tanjim Hasan Sakib, Mohammad Saifuddin, Rishad Hossain, Mustafizur Rahman.
Sri Lanka probable playing XI:
Pathum Nissanka, Kusal Mendis (wk), Kusal Perera, Avishka Fernando, Charith Asalanka (captain), Dasun Shanaka, Chamika Karunaratne, Jeffrey Vandersay, Maheesh Theekshana, Nuwan Thushara, Binura Fernando.
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FAQ
1. When and where will the second T20I between Bangladesh and Sri Lanka be played?
The second T20I will be held on Sunday at 7:30 PM (Bangladesh time) at the Rangiri Dambulla International Stadium, Sri Lanka.
2. What is the current scoreline of the T20I series between Bangladesh and Sri Lanka?
Sri Lanka leads the three-match T20I series 1-0, having won the first match by 7 wickets.
3. Who are the key players to watch in the second T20I?
For Bangladesh, all eyes will be on Liton Das (captain) and Mustafizur Rahman, while Sri Lanka will rely on Kusal Mendis, Charith Asalanka, and Maheesh Theekshana for impact performances.