The ODI series between Sri Lanka and Bangladesh hangs in the balance as both sides move to Pallekele, where rain awaits them. Bangladesh have channeled their most incredible form, in both worst and best ways respectively, in the first two games in Colombo. They failed to gun down 244 on the same ground where they defended 248 in the next game. But one can hand some of this credit to how Colombo treats batters under the lights. The venue has historically favoured teams batting first. The results in this series haven’t been any different.
However, Pallekele will not have any such inclinations. That is, though, rain-permitting. The last ODI played here was abandoned when the rain refused to relent, and the previous four were truncated because of the same reason too.
For Sri Lanka, the game holds importance. The last time they lost a bilateral ODI series at home was way back in 2021, when, quite interestingly, Colombo’s love for teams batting first didn’t serve them well. They have one last shot at keeping their winning streak alive, especially when they are so desperately trying to build their reputation in the format.
Team Overview:
Bangladesh left out Taskin Ahmed to test their other pace options, but with the series on the line, they will want their main man back. Taskin took four wickets on his return after fitness, making his spell one of the few bright spots on an otherwise gloomy day for his team. Bangladesh would also be confident in how brilliantly Parvez Hossain Emon batted in the second ODI. They have largely had nothing from their top order, especially with Najmul Hossain Shanto out of form. Shamim Hossain, who looked in pain after saving a boundary in Colombo the other day, seems doubtful to feature in the last game.
Pathum Nissanka has had a dismal run in home games lately, but Pallekele is one of his favorite grounds to bat at. He averages something north of 60 here, and that is where his career-best, red-inked 210 came. Kusal Mendis has run the hard yards this series, but Bangladesh are his favourite opposition to score runs against. Sri Lanka may bring back Milan Rathnayake to increase their batting depth, as well as have another bowling option.
Head-to-Head:
Bangladesh and Sri Lanka have played 58 matches against each other, with the latter winning 43 matches and losing 13. Two matches ended without any result.
Weather and Pitch Report:
Pallekele is essentially a bowling-friendly ground. On a good day, it favours both pacers and spinners. But good days are a rarity here. The forecast predicts rain playing spoilsport, but a full game is still not out of the question.
Prediction:
Sri Lanka have an upper hand with the history favouring them, but if Bangladesh are anything like how they were in the last game, things can get challenging for the hosts.
Where to Watch:
Sri Lanka: Ten Cricket, Siyatha TV, Dialog TV, SLT IPTV
Bangladesh: Nagorik TV, Toffee, T Sports
Pakistan: Ten Sports, Tapmad
India: Fancode app, Sony LIV app, Sony Sports Network
South Africa: Supersport Cricket
UK: TNT Sports
Caribbean: Rush
