The second ODI between Sri Lanka and Bangladesh at R. Premadasa Stadium in Colombo on July 5, 2025, promises to be a thrilling encounter. With Sri Lanka leading the three-match series 1-0, Bangladesh won the toss and elected to bat first, aiming to level the series on a pitch known for favoring spinners, especially in the evening. Both teams have made strategic changes to their line-ups, bolstering their spin bowling options in anticipation of a turning track. This article provides a detailed, engaging, and comprehensive account of the match, including live updates, team changes, moments, and tactical insights, all while incorporating authentic information from the ongoing game.
Bangladesh’s Decision to Bat First
Bangladesh’s captain, Mehidy Hasan Miraz, won the toss and chose to bat, a decision influenced by their collapse while chasing in the first ODI and the historical difficulty of chasing at Khettarama. The R. Premadasa Stadium pitch is renowned for becoming challenging in the second innings, particularly under lights, as it often assists spinners. Bangladesh’s strategy appears to be to set a competitive total and leverage their strengthened spin attack to defend it. This move reflects a calculated approach to avoid a repeat of their dramatic collapse in the first match, where they lost seven wickets for just five runs, crumbling from 100/1 to 167 all out.
Team Changes and Spin-Heavy Line-ups
Both teams made two changes to their playing XIs, emphasizing spin bowling to exploit the expected conditions. Sri Lanka replaced seam-bowling allrounder Milan Rathnayake with left-arm spinning allrounder Dunith Wellalage and swapped seamer Eshan Malinga for the experienced Dushmantha Chameera. These changes indicate a shift toward a balanced attack, with Wellalage adding depth to their spin department alongside Wanindu Hasaranga and Maheesh Theekshana, while Chameera brings pace and experience.
Bangladesh, meanwhile, rested seamer Taskin Ahmed, introducing Hasan Mahmud, another right-arm pacer, and replaced Litton Das with off-spinning allrounder Shamim Hossain. The inclusion of Shamim, alongside Tanvir Islam and captain Mehidy Hasan Miraz, signals Bangladesh’s intent to dominate with spin. The team compositions suggest both sides anticipate a pitch that will deteriorate, offering turn and grip as the match progresses.
Live Match Updates: Bangladesh’s Innings
As of the latest update at 26.1 overs, Bangladesh are 146/4, with a run rate of approximately 5.58. The innings has seen a mix of cautious play and aggressive intent, with moments shaping the game’s narrative.
- Early Stability: Bangladesh started steadily, with openers Parvez Hossain Emon and Tanzid Hasan building a foundation. Their approach was to counter the new ball and set a platform, mindful of the first ODI’s collapse triggered by a run-out. However, the exact details of the early dismissals are not specified in the updates, but by the 19th over, Bangladesh were 110/3, indicating the loss of wickets, including likely Emon, Tanzid, and Najmul Hossain Shanto.
- Mehidy’s Brief Resistance: Captain Mehidy Hasan Miraz, batting at number six, played a short but impactful knock, scoring 7 off 7 balls, including a stylish four off Hasaranga with an imperious sweep shot. His dismissal in the 22.4 over, caught off Chameera, was a blow to Bangladesh. The slower delivery deceived Mehidy, who smiled as he walked off, acknowledging he had picked the change in pace but failed to capitalize.
- Shamim Hossain’s Arrival: Shamim Hossain, the new batter at number six, made an immediate impact. In the 25.1 over, he smashed a six off Kamindu Mendis, sweeping a tossed-up delivery over long-on. His aggressive approach, combined with Tawhid Hridoy’s steady presence (20 off 33 balls), has kept Bangladesh’s innings on track. Shamim’s ability to play spin, evident in his sweep shots and quick singles, will be crucial as the pitch begins to turn.
- Bowling Performances: Sri Lanka’s spinners have been active, with Wanindu Hasaranga (1/22 in 5 overs) and Dunith Wellalage (0/20 in 5 overs) maintaining pressure. Hasaranga dismissed a batter in the 19th over, while Wellalage has been economical. Dushmantha Chameera (1/25 in 5 overs) struck by removing Mehidy, and his pace variations, including a well-directed bouncer to Shamim, have tested the batters. Kamindu Mendis, the fifth spinner, conceded a wide and a six in his first over, indicating Bangladesh’s intent to attack the part-time spinner.
Tactical Insights: Spin vs. Pace Battle
The match has highlighted the tactical battle between spin and pace. Sri Lanka’s decision to field three specialist spinners (Hasaranga, Theekshana, and Wellalage) alongside Kamindu Mendis’s part-time spin underscores their confidence in the pitch’s turning nature. Hasaranga’s leg-breaks and googlies have been probing, as seen in his dismissal and tight bowling, while Wellalage’s left-arm spin has kept the run rate in check. Chameera’s return to the attack in the 22nd over, with figures of 1/22, shows Sri Lanka’s strategy to mix pace with spin to disrupt Bangladesh’s rhythm.
Bangladesh, on the other hand, have relied on their batters to counter spin with proactive shots. Shamim’s six off Kamindu and Hridoy’s boundary off Hasaranga demonstrate their intent to dominate the spinners. However, the loss of wickets at critical junctures, including Mehidy’s dismissal, suggests Sri Lanka’s bowlers are exploiting the pitch’s assistance. Bangladesh will need Hridoy and Shamim to build a substantial partnership to post a competitive total, likely aiming for 250-270, given the historical difficulty of chasing at this venue.
Historical Context and Series Implications
The first ODI saw Sri Lanka post 244, powered by Charith Asalanka’s century (106), before Bangladesh collapsed dramatically. A run-out of Najmul Hossain Shanto, courtesy of Milan Rathnayake’s brilliant fielding, triggered the slide, ending a 71-run stand with Tanzid Hasan. This collapse has put pressure on Bangladesh to avoid a series defeat, as a loss in this match would hand Sri Lanka an unassailable 2-0 lead.
Asalanka’s leadership and batting form have been pivotal for Sri Lanka, who have climbed the ODI rankings under his captaincy. His partnership with interim coach Sanath Jayasuriya has been instrumental, as noted in recent comments praising Asalanka’s role in Sri Lanka’s resurgence. For Bangladesh, Tanzid Hasan’s call for the batters to “bat long and deep” reflects their strategy to avoid another collapse and build a defendable total.
Players to Watch
- Shamim Hossain (Bangladesh): The off-spinning allrounder’s inclusion adds balance to Bangladesh’s side. His aggressive batting, highlighted by the six off Kamindu, could be a game-changer. If he can anchor the middle order alongside Hridoy, Bangladesh may set a challenging target.
- Tawhid Hridoy (Bangladesh): With 20 off 33 balls, Hridoy has shown composure. His ability to rotate the strike and play big shots, like the cut for four off Hasaranga, will be vital in the middle overs.
- Wanindu Hasaranga (Sri Lanka): The leg-spinner’s 1/22 in 5 overs underlines his threat. His variations and ability to pick wickets at crucial moments make him Sri Lanka’s trump card.
- Dushmantha Chameera (Sri Lanka): Returning to the XI, Chameera’s pace and variations (1/25 in 5 overs) have troubled Bangladesh. His dismissal of Mehidy shows his knack for breaking partnerships.
Pitch and Conditions
The Khettarama pitch is known for its spin-friendly nature, particularly in the second innings under lights. The decision to strengthen spin options reflects both teams’ expectations of turn and grip. The pitch’s behavior in the first ODI, where it assisted spinners late in the game, supports this strategy. Bangladesh’s choice to bat first aims to capitalize on better batting conditions early on, while Sri Lanka’s bowlers will look to exploit the deteriorating pitch in the chase.
What Lies Ahead
With Bangladesh at 146/4 after 26.1 overs, the match is finely poised. The partnership between Hridoy and Shamim is critical, as they look to accelerate and set a target above 250. Sri Lanka’s spinners, led by Hasaranga, will aim to restrict Bangladesh and take quick wickets to keep the target within reach. The historical difficulty of chasing at R. Premadasa Stadium gives Bangladesh an edge if they can post a competitive total, but Sri Lanka’s balanced attack and strong batting line-up, featuring Pathum Nissanka, Kusal Mendis, and Asalanka, make them formidable.
Broader Context: Cricket Updates
While the ODI unfolds in Colombo, a parallel cricket narrative is developing in Birmingham, where India are 101/2, leading by 281 on Day 4 of the second Test against England. Karun Nair’s failure to convert his start (26) highlights the challenges of Test cricket, but India’s position suggests a strong performance. This global cricketing context underscores the sport’s vibrant landscape, with simultaneous high-stakes matches engaging fans worldwide.
Highlights: Sri Lanka vs Bangladesh 2nd ODI (July 5, 2025)
| Aspect | Details & Insights |
|---|---|
| Toss Result | Bangladesh won the toss and opted to bat first |
| Venue | R. Premadasa Stadium, Colombo – Known for aiding spinners, especially under lights |
| Series Status | Sri Lanka leads 1-0 in the 3-match ODI series |
| Strategic Team Changes | Sri Lanka: Rathnayake & Malinga out, Wellalage & Chameera inBangladesh: Litton & Taskin out, Shamim & Hasan Mahmud in |
| Pitch Conditions | Spin-friendly surface; expected to deteriorate in the second innings |
| Bangladesh Batting Status | 146/4 in 26.1 overs – Middle-order rebuilding underway |
| Partnerships | Hridoy & Shamim Hossain steadying the innings with proactive strokeplay |
| Sri Lanka’s Bowling Strength | Spin trio of Hasaranga, Wellalage, Theekshana plus pace threat Chameera |
| Impact Player – Bangladesh | Shamim Hossain – Immediate impact with aggressive shots including a six off Mendis |
| Impact Player – Sri Lanka | Wanindu Hasaranga – Consistent wicket-taker with tight economy |
| Chasing Difficulty at Venue | Historical trend: Chasing under lights at Khettarama is notoriously challenging |
| Target Bangladesh Aims For | Ideally 250-270 to defend on a turning track |
| Sri Lanka’s Chase Potential | Strong batting line-up with Nissanka, Kusal Mendis, and Asalanka |
| Series Implication | Bangladesh must win to stay alive in the series; Sri Lanka seeks to seal the series |
| Live Cricket Context | India vs England 2nd Test also ongoing; cricket fans enjoying multiple high-stakes matches globally |
Conclusion
The second ODI between Sri Lanka and Bangladesh is a critical juncture in the series, with Bangladesh fighting to stay alive and Sri Lanka aiming to seal the deal. The spin-heavy line-ups, tactical team changes, and the Khettarama pitch’s reputation set the stage for a gripping contest. As Bangladesh build their innings, led by Hridoy and Shamim, and Sri Lanka’s bowlers, particularly Hasaranga and Chameera, apply pressure, fans can expect a battle of skill and strategy. With live updates continuing to track every ball, this match is a must-watch for cricket enthusiasts.
For the latest scores and commentary, follow the live scorecard from R. Premadasa Stadium, where every run, wicket, and tactical move will shape the outcome of this enthralling encounter.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Why did Bangladesh choose to bat first in the 2nd ODI?
Bangladesh opted to bat first after winning the toss to avoid chasing under lights on the spin-friendly Khettarama pitch. Their decision was also influenced by the dramatic collapse in the first ODI while chasing. Batting first gave them a chance to post a competitive total and utilize their spin-heavy bowling attack later.
2. How is the pitch at R. Premadasa Stadium affecting the match?
The Khettarama pitch is known for favoring spinners, particularly in the second innings. It offers grip and turn as the game progresses, making it harder to bat under lights. Both teams made strategic changes to strengthen their spin departments in anticipation of these conditions.
3. Who are the players performing in the match so far?
- For Bangladesh, Shamim Hossain has impressed with aggressive stroke play in the middle overs.
- For Sri Lanka, Wanindu Hasaranga and Dushmantha Chameera have been crucial with tight spells and timely breakthroughs.
4. What are the expected winning totals on this pitch?
At Khettarama, teams generally aim for a first-innings score of 250-270 to feel secure. The pitch becomes more difficult for batting in the evening, and chasing totals above 240 is historically challenging.
5. What changes were made by both teams for the second ODI?
- Sri Lanka brought in Dunith Wellalage and Dushmantha Chameera to replace Rathnayake and Malinga, adding spin and experience.
- Bangladesh rested Taskin Ahmed and replaced Litton Das with allrounder Shamim Hossain, signaling a shift to a more spin-focused attack.
6. How has Sri Lanka’s captain Charith Asalanka contributed to the series?
Asalanka has been central to Sri Lanka’s recent success. His century in the first ODI and his calm leadership on the field have helped the team maintain momentum. His partnership with interim coach Sanath Jayasuriya is being credited for the team’s resurgence.
7. What is the broader significance of this match for both teams?
For Sri Lanka, a win would seal the series 2-0, boosting their ODI ranking and morale. For Bangladesh, it’s a must-win match to level the series and restore confidence after their first-match collapse.
8. How is the global cricket landscape shaping up alongside this ODI?
As this ODI unfolds in Colombo, fans are also tracking India’s performance in the second Test against England in Birmingham. The simultaneous high-stakes contests highlight a vibrant international cricket calendar.
9. Who are the bowlers likely to dominate in the second innings?
Sri Lanka’s spinners — Hasaranga, Theekshana, and Wellalage — are expected to be highly effective as the pitch continues to wear. Their ability to exploit turn and variation could be decisive in defending a target.
10. What makes Shamim Hossain a valuable inclusion for Bangladesh?
Shamim brings balance as an off-spinning allrounder. His fearless batting style and ability to play spin make him a crucial middle-order asset, especially on slower pitches like the one at Khettarama.