SL vs BAN, 2025: Sri Lanka vs Bangladesh, 1st T20I Match Preview

Sri Lanka and Bangladesh collide in the first T20I in the three-match series at the Pallekele International Cricket Stadium in Pallekele on Thursday, July 10.

Sri Lanka bagged the two-match Test series 1-0 and the three-match ODI series 2-1. Now, they will look to dominate a deflated Bangladesh side in the shortest format of the game. However, the Bangla Tigers have a young and exuberant side, which will look to bring smiles to the faces of their passionate fans.

Sri Lanka's most recent T20I assignment was against New Zealand earlier this year. The three-match series, played in New Zealand, was won by a 2-1 margin by the Kiwis. Sri Lanka lost the first T20I by just eight runs. A little bit of luck and they could have emerged victorious in the series. Charith Asalanka, Kusal Mendis, and Pathum Nissanka will be the key batters for the hosts, while Jeffrey Vandersay will have big shoes to fill as he is replacing the injured Wanindu Hasaranga.

On the other hand, Bangladesh recently played a three-match T20I series against Pakistan in Lahore. They were defeated comprehensively in all three matches by the Men in Green. Opening batters Parven Hossain Emon and Tanzid Hasan Tamim will have to give good starts to their team. Litton Das will also have to lead the team from the front.

Match Details

Pitch Report

The Pallekele International Cricket Stadium pitch is expected to favour spinners as the game goes on. Chasing a target is going to be difficult at this venue. Batters who get off to a good start will have to look to capitalise as new batters might struggle to hit the big shots from ball one.

Head-to-Head Record