SL vs BAN 2025: 'Fielding changed the game' - Wanindu Hasaranga on Sri Lanka's fielding efforts in first ODI

Sri Lanka registered a comprehensive 77-run victory in the first ODI against Bangladesh at the R Premadasa Stadium, Colombo. While Charith Asalanka’s century was the main highlight with the bat, it was the home team's exceptional fielding that made the huge difference, according to the leg-spinner Wanindu Hasaranga.

Bangladesh were comfortably batting at 100/1 while chasing 245, when debutant Milan Rathnayake’s throw from deep square leg ran out Najmul Hossain Shanto for 23. This was followed by Janith Liyanage's brilliant diving catch at mid-off to dismiss Tanzid Hasan, who scored 62 off 61 balls.

"Milan Rathnayake was outstanding. So was Janith Liyanage. We have shown that how we can change games with our fielding and this game is a further proof for that. They were cruising at one stage. That run out from Milan changed the game. Then of course Janith Liyanage pulled off a stunner and that turned the game in our favour," Hasaranga said as quoted by Cricbuzz.

Happy to have contributed to the success of Sri Lanka: Wanindu Hasaranga

Despite scoring 244, Hasaranga revealed that the Sri Lankan camp was confident of defending the total. He also spoke about being handed the ball in the 18th over.

"I think they felt that they should go with a seam heavy attack. But you need to adjust to conditions quickly. Bangladeshi batters took on our quicks probably knowing that when the spinners come on it will be tough to score runs. Asitha bowled well as he usually does. I think it was good to see the way the bowlers adjusted," he said adding that they decided to bring him as late as in the 18th over due to a tactical reason. Charith, Kusal and I had a chat and we decided to hold myself back. The plan was that since they have too many left-handers in the top order, for me to come as late as possible and attack the right-handers," he further added.

The leg-spinner removed Litton Das for a duck and then got rid of Tanzid, courtesy of Liyanage’s catch. Kamindu Mendis, with his ambidextrous spin, went on to dismantle the middle order alongside Hasaranga, both picking up three wickets each. Meanwhile, the veteran spinner completed his 100th ODI wicket on the same day he celebrated eight years in international cricket. 

"I missed a lot of cricket due to my injuries and the surgery that I had to undergo. The toughest part was missing a World Cup due to injury and very happy to have contributed for the success of Sri Lanka as I am proud about it. I wasn't aware of the 1000-run milestone but I knew I just needed one wicket for 100 wickets. It's a day I complete eight years as an international cricketer and very pleased with this and I hope to continue in the same way," he concluded.