Bangladesh Women edged out Sri Lanka Women in a tense finish during the first ODI of the Sri Lanka Women’s tour of Bangladesh 2026, chasing down 206 with just nine balls to spare in a match that swung dramatically in the final overs.

Put into bat, Sri Lanka Team posted a competitive 205/9 from their 50 overs, built on steady contributions rather than a single dominant innings. Imesha Dulani (52 off 77) and Hansima Karunaratne (54 off 71) anchored the innings with a crucial middle-order stand after early setbacks. Captain Hasini Perera made a brisk 27, but Sri Lanka struggled to accelerate in the final 10 overs, losing wickets at regular intervals.

Bangladesh’s bowling attack kept things tight throughout. Ritu Moni was the standout performer, claiming 3 for 36 and breaking key partnerships, while Nahida Akter and Marufa Akter maintained pressure with disciplined spells.

In reply, Bangladesh got off to a disastrous start, losing two wickets within the first two overs. However, Sharmin Akhter produced a match-defining innings, scoring a composed 86 off 127 balls to anchor the chase. She found support from Sobhana Mostary, who made 41 before retiring hurt, and later Shorna Akter, whose 35 added momentum in the middle overs.

Despite being in control for much of the chase, Bangladesh nearly stumbled at the finish. A late burst from Sri Lanka’s bowlers saw Dewmi Vihanga pick up three crucial wickets, triggering a collapse that left Bangladesh at 200/7 after being comfortably placed at 199/3.
The match briefly tilted back in Sri Lanka’s favor, but Bangladesh held their nerve. Extras proved decisive, with 21 wides significantly easing the chase. Eventually, Bangladesh crossed the target in 48.3 overs, sealing a hard-fought three-wicket victory.

Sri Lanka will rue their inability to capitalize on key moments, particularly in the death overs with both bat and ball. The absence of star player Chamari Athapaththu was evident, as they lacked the firepower to push their total beyond reach.

Sri Lanka has reportedly finalized its squad for the upcoming U85kg rugby encounter against New Zealand, marking an exciting chapter for the nation’s emerging rugby talent. The squad, highlights a balanced mix of experienced performers and promising young players ready to represent the country on an international stage.

Leading the side is Lasindhu Karunathilake, who has been entrusted with captaincy duties. Known for his leadership and consistency, Karunathilake will play a crucial role in guiding the team through what is expected to be a highly competitive contest. The squad also features key names such as Deshan Vimukthi, Pulasthi Dassanayake, Hansitha De Silva, and Thilina Bandara, all of whom have shown strong form in recent domestic competitions.

The inclusion of players like Naveen Marasinghe, Tharindhu Chathuranga, and Lahiru Thilakarathne adds depth and versatility, while emerging talents such as Thenuka Nanayakkara, Janidu Dilshan, and Yuwan Pathirana will be eager to make their mark. The squad also welcomes Oliver Buckle, adding an interesting dimension to the lineup.

However, the team will have to cope with a few setbacks, as Gayantha Iddamalgoda, Shamika Kawshan, and Omalka Gunarathne have been listed as unavailable due to injuries. Their absence opens opportunities for others like Venura Kodhagoda, Charith Silva, and Daham Hemachandra to step up.

With strong preparation and a determined squad, Sri Lanka will look to put up a spirited performance against New Zealand in this U85kg clash.

Squad:

Deshan Vimukthi, Pulasthi Dassanayake, Hansitha De Silva, Thilina Bandara, Naveen Marasinghe, Tharindhu Chathuranga, Lahiru Thilakarathne, Lasindhu Karunathilake (C), Harsha Maduranga, Murshid Zubair, Diluksha Dange, Akash Madushanka, Thenuka Nanayakkara, Janidu Dilshan, Yuwan Pathirana, Gayantha Iddamalgoda (injury), Shamika Kawshan (injury), Venura Kodhagoda, Charith Silva, Nisal Silva, Omalka Gunarathne (injury), Daham Hemachandra, Vidhuna Amaneth, Manilka Ruberu, Jayathu Rajaratne, Oliver Buckle.

Sri Lanka’s youth table tennis squads delivered an impressive showing at the South Asian Youth Table Tennis Championship held in Shimla, India, with the nation’s Under-19 teams leading the charge by securing silver medals and booking their places at the upcoming Asian Youth Championship.

The Under-19 boys’ team, captained by Akain Bojith and supported by Hareen Nimdinu, Mathila Sasdinu, and Danuk Lamasuriya, emerged as runners-up after a strong campaign, finishing behind Bangladesh. Their performance ensured qualification for the 30th Asian Youth Table Tennis Championship, scheduled to take place in Oman from June 22 to 28.

Matching their male counterparts, the Under-19 girls’ team also clinched silver. Led by captain Tamadi Kavindya, alongside Shamasha Dewmi, Lesanya Sethundi, and Sadinthi Jayasinghe, the team secured a spot at the continental tournament after finishing just behind India.

Sri Lanka’s success extended to the Under-15 category as well. The boys’ team Sanon Duljith (captain), Yenul Abeywickrama, Kenura Silva, and Onel Shammika earned a commendable silver medal. Meanwhile, the girls’ team, captained by Chanuki Akshana and featuring Muthuli Sahanya, Hesanya Sesathmi, and Sithma Sandamini, claimed bronze. Both teams automatically qualified for the Asian Youth Championship.