Pallekele July 8, 2025:
Sri Lanka won the toss and chose to bat first in the third and final ODI against Bangladesh in Pallekele, with both sides aiming to seal the series.
Despite forecasts of rain, the toss was held under clear skies, offering hope for a full match. This is the series decider, as both teams have won one match each. The previous games were played in Khettarama, where chasing proved difficult. Today’s pitch, however, is expected to offer better batting conditions.
Sri Lanka’s captain Charith Asalanka said he expects 280 to be a winning score. Bangladesh skipper Mehidy Hasan Miraz agreed, noting the importance of early momentum. The side batting first has won both games so far.
Sri Lanka named an unchanged XI despite losing the second ODI by 16 runs. This means Dunith Wellalage, the spin-bowling allrounder, keeps his place, while Milan Rathnayake remains on the bench.
Bangladesh made one change to their playing XI. Taskin Ahmed returns, replacing Hasan Mahmud, who played in the previous match. Taskin was rested for the second ODI and is expected to provide early breakthroughs with the new ball.
Sri Lanka Playing XI:
Madushka, Nissanka, Kusal Mendis (wk), Kamindu Mendis, Asalanka (c), Liyanage, Wellalage, Hasaranga, Theekshana, Chameera, Asitha Fernando.
Bangladesh Playing XI:
Parvez Emon, Tanzid Hasan, Shanto, Towhid Hridoy, Shamim Hossain, Mehidy (c), Jaker Ali (wk), Tanzim Sakib, Taskin Ahmed, Tanvir Islam, Mustafizur Rahman.
With bright conditions and a series on the line, both teams will look to set the tone early. However, weather remains a concern, and any rain interruption could impact the outcome.
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