Bangladesh thrash Sri Lanka by record 83 runs to level series

Bangladesh unleashed a fiery bowling performance after a solid batting display to crush Sri Lanka by a record-breaking 83 runs in the second T20I in Dambulla, leveling the three-match series at 1-1.

The series decider is set for Wednesday.

This 83-run victory marks Bangladesh's largest margin against a Test-playing nation, surpassing their 80-run win over West Indies in December last year.

Led by captain Litton Das’s 76 off 50 balls and Shamim Hossain’s explosive 48 off 27, Bangladesh posted 177-7. Their bowlers then skittled Sri Lanka for 94 in 15.2 overs. Shoriful Islam, back in the side, struck early with 2-12, backed by Mohammad Saifuddin’s two wickets.

Mustafizur Rahman claimed one, while leg-spinner Rishad Hossain shone with three scalps.

The tone was set in the field with Shamim’s brilliant direct hit in the second over, running out the in-form Kusal Mendis (8 off 5). Shoriful removed Kusal Perera (0) and Avishka Fernando (2 off 5) in quick succession, and Saifuddin dismissed Sri Lankan captain Charith Asalanka (5 off 5) in the Powerplay’s final over, leaving Sri Lanka reeling at 37-4 after six overs, firmly handing Bangladesh the upper hand.