In an electrifying clash that will be remembered for the ‘timed out’ controversy, Bangladesh snatched a thrilling three-wicket victory over Sri Lanka. The tension-filled evening at the Arun Jaitley Stadium culminated with Bangladesh scaling the challenging 280-run target, propelling them towards a coveted spot in the Champions Trophy 2025. The game was a rollercoaster from start to finish, with Bangladesh’s Najmul Shanto (90) and Shakib Al Hasan (82) turning the match on its head with their batting prowess.
Dew Plays Deciding Factor Under Delhi Lights The dew in Delhi’s dusky evening played to the advantage of Bangladesh’s batters, negating the early setback of losing Tanzid Hasan. The changing conditions made batting a breeze under the stadium’s illuminating floodlights, setting the stage for a memorable chase.
Shakib vs. Mathews: The Duel That Defined the Game The face-off between Shakib Al Hasan and Angelo Mathews became the center of intrigue, following the day’s earlier ‘timed out’ appeal by the Bangladesh captain that led to Mathews’s controversial dismissal. Tension brimmed as Mathews nearly claimed revenge during his bowling stint, only to have Shakib dropped early on — a mistake Sri Lanka would rue.
The Highs and Lows of a Dramatic Clash The partnership between Shakib and Shanto almost secured the game for Bangladesh, but the drama peaked when Mathews dismissed Shakib in what commentators called ‘poetic justice’. The contest intensified as Mathews took another wicket next over, ratcheting up the pressure on Bangladesh. Despite some shaky moments from Mushfiqur Rahim and Mehidy Hasan Miraz, it was Tanzim Sakib who emerged as the hero, striking the winning runs.
A Slow Burner for Sri Lanka Turned Rescue Mission Sri Lanka’s innings, contrastingly, was marked by caution and a slower-than-desired pace. It took a centurion effort from Charith Asalanka to salvage their innings, but a late collapse prevented them from maximizing their full batting potential.