Mendis Ton Crushes Bangladesh as Sri Lanka Clinch Series with 99-Run Win

Kusal Mendis Stars as Sri Lanka Clinch ODI Series with 99-Run Rout of Bangladesh

Sri Lanka wrapped up a convincing 2-1 ODI series victory over Bangladesh with a 99-run win in the decider at the Pallekele International Cricket Stadium on Tuesday, July 8. Riding on a brilliant century from vice-captain Kusal Mendis (124 off 114) and a clinical bowling performance, the hosts sealed their eighth straight bilateral ODI series win.

Mendis Leads from the Front
Opting to bat first, Sri Lanka posted a solid 285/7 in 50 overs, anchored by Mendis’ sixth ODI hundred. The right-hander rescued the innings after an early setback, stitching a 56-run stand with Pathum Nissanka (35 off 47) before forming a match-defining 124-run partnership with captain Charith Asalanka (58 off 68).

Though Sri Lanka lost quick wickets in the middle overs, Mendis’ aggressive yet composed innings kept the scoreboard ticking. He reached his century off 95 balls and added crucial runs in the death overs, ensuring a competitive total.

Bangladesh Falter in Chase
In reply, Bangladesh’s top order crumbled early, slipping to 20/2 inside four overs. Towhid Hridoy (51 off 78) showed some resistance with a gritty half-century, but lacked support from the other end. The visitors were eventually bowled out for 186 in 39.4 overs, falling well short of the target.

Sri Lanka’s bowling attack fired in unison—Asitha Fernando (3/33) and Dushmantha Chameera (3/51) led the way with the new ball, while Dunith Wellalage (2/33) and Wanindu Hasaranga (2/35) wrapped up the lower order in a dominant display.

Player of the Series: Kusal Mendis
Mendis was named Player of the Match for his match-winning knock and also took home the Player of the Series award after finishing as the highest run-scorer—225 runs in three innings.

Sri Lanka’s commanding performance underlined their growing consistency in ODIs, as they now turn their focus to upcoming assignments with momentum and depth in both batting and bowling.