Opening batter Pathum Nissanka’s century helped Sri Lanka chase down Bangladesh by three wickets and level their one-day international series on Friday.
Nissanka’s 114 in a national record 185-run stand for the fourth wicket with Charith Asalanka saved Sri Lanka from 43-3. Asalanka made a 93-ball 91 and missed out on his fourth ton. But their partnership was key in overcoming Bangladesh’s 286-7 with 287-7 in 47.1 overs.
“After the three wickets fell, Charith and me decided to bat normally and, looking at the score, to bat long and get close to the target,” Nissanka said. ”Initially, it was important we settle down, and then we decided one of us would go after the bowlers.”
Bangladesh was led by Towhid Hridoy, who finished 96 not out.
Bangladesh pacer Shoriful Islam continued his habit of striking with the new ball when opener Avishka Fernando edged the first ball he faced to first slip for a duck.
