KUSAL, ASITHA, DUSHMANTHA STEER SRI LANKA TO SERIES WIN

A quickfire 114-ball knock of 124, inclusive of 18 boundaries, by Kusal Perera and a composed 58 by skipper Charith Asalanka laid the foundation for Sri Lanka's commanding 99-run victory in the series decider against Bangladesh in the third ODI played at the Pallekele International Stadium yesterday.

- By M. SHAMIL AMIT

Right-arm pacers Asitha Fernando and Dushmantha Chameera carried the momentum forward, sharing six wickets between them to help bundle out Bangladesh for 186, chasing a formidable target of 286. The victory handed Sri Lanka a 2-1 series win.

Bangladesh's chase began poorly, losing two quick wickets with the score on 20, including Najmul Hossain Shanto, who was clean bowled by Fernando for a duck. With no substantial partnerships thereafter, the visitors struggled. The highest stand was a brief 43-run partnership for the fourth wicket between Towhid Hridoy, who top-scored with 51, and skipper Mehidy Hasan Miraz. However, regular wickets kept them under pressure.

Spin duo Dunith Wellalage and Wanindu Hasaranga also chipped in effectively, sharing four wickets between them, making the chase increasingly difficult for Bangladesh.