Context:

Bangladesh achieved a commanding 83-run victory over Sri Lanka in the second T20 match, leveling the series at 1-1. Captain Litton Das led the charge with a 50-ball 76, steering Bangladesh to a total of 177-7 in 20 overs. Sri Lanka's chase faltered early, with Kusal Mendis run out in the second over and the team reduced to 30-4 during the powerplay. Bangladesh's bowling attack, led by Shoriful Islam and Rishad Hossain, dismantled Sri Lanka for 94 in just 15.2 overs. The decisive win sets up an exciting final match in Colombo, following Sri Lanka's earlier victories in both the T20 opener and the ODI series against Bangladesh.

Dive Deeper:

• Litton Das played a pivotal role for Bangladesh, scoring his first T20 half-century in 13 games, which contributed significantly to the team's total of 177-7 after 20 overs. His performance was crucial in setting a challenging target for Sri Lanka, who had opted to bowl first after winning the toss.

• Sri Lanka's innings began poorly with the run out of in-form batter Kusal Mendis in the second over, leading to a collapse that saw them at 30-4 by the end of the powerplay. This early setback disrupted their chase and set the tone for the rest of the innings.

• Shoriful Islam was instrumental in the powerplay, taking two vital wickets for just 12 runs, which helped Bangladesh maintain pressure on the Sri Lankan batsmen. His performance was a key factor in Bangladesh's ability to control the game from the start.

• Legspinner Rishad Hossain was effective in the middle overs, taking three wickets for 18 runs, including the crucial dismissals of Pathum Nissanka and Chamika Karunaratne. His bowling ensured that Sri Lanka's lower order could not stabilize the innings.

• The Bangladesh bowling unit worked cohesively, with all five bowlers taking wickets, which led to Sri Lanka being all out in 15.2 overs. This comprehensive bowling performance highlighted Bangladesh's dominance in the match.

• Das not only excelled with the bat but also contributed significantly in the field with two stumpings and two catches, showcasing his versatility and leadership on the field. His all-round performance was a highlight of the match.

• With the series now tied, the final T20 match in Colombo promises to be a thrilling decider, especially after Sri Lanka's earlier successes in the series, including a win in the first T20 and victories in both the ODI and test series against Bangladesh.