After a promising start but a disappointing end in the two-match Test series, Bangladesh suffered a 1-0 defeat against Sri Lanka. Now, the Tigers are set to take on the same opponents in a three-match ODI series, starting today (Wednesday) at Colombo’s Premadasa Stadium at 3:00 PM. Discussions are rife about how Bangladesh’s opening pair will perform in the ODI format, following their Test series performance.
It remains to be seen whether Najim Sheikh or Parvez Hossain Emon will partner Tanjid Hasan Tamim at the top. Speculation suggests that Tanjid Tamim and Emon are likely to be chosen as the opening pair. Meanwhile, Liton Das is expected to anchor the middle order, with captain Mehidy Hasan Miraz likely to join him. During the pre-match press conference yesterday, Miraz hinted at the possibility of younger players stepping up in place of veterans Mushfiqur Rahim and Mahmudullah Riyad.
Additionally, spinner Tanvir Islam may replace Rishad Hossain in the XI, as the latter missed practice yesterday due to illness. There’s also strong anticipation for the return of pacer Taskin Ahmed, who is likely to make a comeback after recovering from an injury. Taskin hasn’t played an ODI since the ICC Champions Trophy, and Bangladesh hasn’t competed in the format since then either.
**Head-to-Head Record**
Bangladesh and Sri Lanka have faced off 57 times in ODIs (including World Cups and other tournaments), with Bangladesh winning 12 matches and Sri Lanka securing 43 victories, while two games ended without a result. The two teams have played 10 ODI series, with Bangladesh winning only in 2021 and 2024. Sri Lanka has triumphed in six series, with two ending in draws.
**Bangladesh’s Likely XI for the First ODI:**
Mehidy Hasan Miraz (captain), Tanjid Hasan Tamim, Parvez Hossain Emon, Najmul Hossain Shanto, Towhid Hridoy, Liton Das, Jaker Ali Anik, Tanvir Islam, Mustafizur Rahman, Taskin Ahmed, Nahid Rana.
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