Bangladesh Face 286-Run Target in Decider as Kusal Mendis Century Lifts Sri Lanka in Kandy

Bangladesh’s bid for their first-ever ODI series win on Sri Lankan soil will require a strong batting display after the hosts posted 285 for 7 in the series-deciding third ODI at the picturesque Pallekele International Cricket Stadium in Kandy.

Winning the toss in this crucial clash, Sri Lanka captain Charith Asalanka chose to bat first, a decision that paid off thanks to a superb century from Kusal Mendis. The Sri Lankan skipper anchored the innings with a brilliant 124, while he found solid support from Asalanka himself, who struck a valuable fifty.

For Bangladesh, fast bowler Taskin Ahmed—who returned to the XI in place of Hasan Mahmud—picked up 2 wickets for 51 runs. Captain Mehidy Hasan Miraz also claimed 2 wickets, conceding 48 runs in his full 10 overs.

Bangladesh will now need 286 runs to win both the match and the series—a feat that would mark their first-ever bilateral ODI series triumph in Sri Lanka. Pallekele has happy memories for the visitors, with a historic win here in 2013. However, Sri Lanka won on this ground in the 2023 Asia Cup.

Whoever wins this deciding match not only secures the series but also strengthens their historical record at Pallekele. The stage is set for a tense run chase under the lights, with weather forecasts suggesting possible rain interruptions.