Tigers maul Lions on way to biggest win
dhaka — Opener Tamim Iqbal hit a second straight half-century and Shakib Al Hasan came up with a strong all-round performance as Bangladesh recorded their biggest ever victory, securing a 163-run win against Sri Lanka in the trination series on Friday.
Iqbal followed up his unbeaten 84 against Zimbabwe with an identical 84 in this match to lay a solid platform. His knock was complemented by two 60 plus knocks from Shakib Al Hasan (67) and Mushfiqur Rahim (62), lifting Bangladesh to 320-6, their highest against Sri Lanka.
Shakib then claimed 3-47 to hasten Sri Lanka’s defeat as they were bowled out for 157 in 32.3 overs. Captain Mashrafe Mortaza (2-30) and fast bowler Rubel Hossain (2-20) aided him in wrapping up the innings effortlessly.
Opener Anamul Haque scored 35 and Mahmudullah made 24. Sabbir Raman also smashed 24 not out towards the end to propel the side past 300. Iqbal and Anamul Haque combined for a 71-run opening stand after Mortaza elected to bat first on a pitch that offered runs.
Paceman Thisara Perera broke through with the wicket of Haque but Iqbal, aided by Shakib Al Hasan kept Sri Lanka frustrated.
They shared a 99-run stand to keep the side on course for a big total. Iqbal, who looked set for his 10th century, nicked a delivery from offspinner Akila Dananjaya, that didn’t spin as much as he expected. However a quick video review reversed the umpire’s not out decision. —