Sri Lanka Defeats Bangladesh by 77 Runs after Historic Batting Collapse in Colombo ODI

Sri Lanka secured a commanding 77-run victory over Bangladesh in the first ODI at Colombo's R Premadasa Stadium, powered by captain Charith Asalanka's composed century and a devastating bowling display. Asalanka's 106 off 123 balls helped Sri Lanka recover from early setbacks to post 244, showcasing resilience and skill with partnerships that steadied the innings. Bangladesh started their chase brightly, with Tanzid Hasan scoring a fluent 62, but then suffered one of the worst collapses in ODI history, losing seven wickets for just five runs between the 17th and 21st overs and ultimately bowled out for 167. The spin duo of Wanindu Hasaranga and Kamindu Mendis orchestrated the collapse, with Hasaranga taking four wickets for 10 runs, marking his 100th ODI wicket milestone, and Mendis adding three wickets. Despite a late resistance from Jaker Ali, Bangladesh could not recover from the middle-order collapse. Sri Lanka now leads the series 1-0, with the second and final ODI scheduled for July 5 and 8.