Sri Lanka head into the 2nd T20I against Bangladesh brimming with confidence after a commanding 7-wicket win in the series opener. Chasing a modest target, the visitors showcased their batting depth and composure under pressure. The star of the match was Kusal Mendis, whose match-winning knock earned him the Player of the Match award. With the series now tilting in their favor, Sri Lanka will be looking to seal the series, while Bangladesh will aim to bounce back strongly and level the contest.

Live Streaming Info

Fans can watch BAN vs SL live on Gazi TV (Bangladesh), SLRC Channel Eye (Sri Lanka), Sony Liv & FanCode (India), and Ten Sports TV (Pakistan). Match Start Time: 7:00 PM IST | 6:30 PM PST | 1:30 PM GMT

Team Analysis

Sri Lanka’s top order, spearheaded by Pathum Nissanka and Kusal Mendis, has been delivering with consistency. Mendis’ form is particularly encouraging, and with captain Charith Asalanka providing stability and Wanindu Hasaranga offering an all-round edge, Sri Lanka’s batting has both explosiveness and reliability. The presence of Maheesh Theekshana and Dunith Wellalage brings control in the middle overs, especially on spinner-friendly surfaces, giving the bowling unit variety. The pace department, led by Nuwan Thushara and Matheesha Pathirana, adds cutting-edge speed and innovation. Thushara’s skiddy action and Pathirana’s yorker accuracy make them potent in the death overs.

Despite their success in the 1st T20I, Sri Lanka remains vulnerable in a few areas. Overdependence on Mendis and Nissanka could backfire if early wickets fall, as the middle order, while talented, has shown signs of collapsing under scoreboard pressure. Additionally, the team’s fielding, although improved, still features occasional lapses that could cost them in tight games. Another concern lies in the batting depth and lower-order hitting ability. If the top five do not fire, Sri Lanka may struggle to accelerate in the final overs. Their spinners can also be expensive if the pitch offers little grip or dew affects grip during night games.

Bangladesh’s top order remains their most potent weapon, with Litton Das and Towhid Hridoy capable of laying a solid foundation. Parvez Hossain Emon’s aggressive strokeplay adds early momentum, while Najmul Hossain Shanto’s level-headed captaincy and adaptability under pressure provide direction. With the ball, Taskin Ahmed’s raw pace and Mehidy Hasan’s control in the powerplay are crucial assets. The emergence of Rishad Hossain as a strike bowler has added another layer to their spin attack, giving Bangladesh a strong middle-over option. Their ability to adapt to different match situations, particularly when bowling first, has significantly improved in recent years.

One of Bangladesh’s key concerns is their shaky middle order. While the top three have shown promise, the failure to convert starts into match-winning totals continues to hurt them. In the 1st T20I, a promising start fizzled out in the latter half, exposing their fragile lower order. Additionally, their fielding—especially under lights—has remained below par. Dropped catches and misfields in pressure moments have repeatedly turned the tide against them. Without improvement in this area, Bangladesh may find it difficult to capitalize on key moments, especially in tightly contested matches.

Match Insights and Conclusion

The 2nd T20I will be played at the Pallekele International Cricket Stadium, a venue known for its balanced conditions. The pitch generally favors batting early on, with slight turn and grip for spinners as the game progresses. Dew could play a role later in the evening, making chasing an advantage.

Sri Lanka’s bowling lineup, with a mix of pace and spin, is well-suited for these conditions, and their current form gives them a slight edge. However, Bangladesh have the firepower to bounce back—especially if their top order clicks and the spinners put pressure in the middle overs. With a lively crowd expected and no rain on the forecast, cricket fans are in for another thrilling clash between two unpredictable sides. If you want to watch Sri Lanka vs Bangladesh live, scroll above and click on the link provided.