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Sri Lanka Ends ICC Test Championship in 6th Place as Australia and South Africa Secure Final Spots

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Sri Lanka wrapped up their ICC Test Championship campaign in a disappointing 6th place, failing to make a strong impact due to a lack of matches in the latter half of the tournament. Australia topped the standings with 4942 points and a rating of 127, setting up a highly anticipated final clash against South Africa, who finished second with 3754 points and a rating of 114.

Despite showing glimpses of promise, Sri Lanka struggled against top teams, particularly in their recent overseas tours. Their back-to-back losses to Australia and South Africa significantly dented their chances of climbing higher in the rankings. The team’s last major success came in September 2024, when they secured a 2-0 series win over New Zealand and an 8-wicket victory against England. However, subsequent defeats pushed them down the leaderboard.

Final ICC Test Championship Standings (Top Teams)

1️⃣ Australia – 4942 points, 127 rating

2️⃣ South Africa – 3754 points, 114 rating

3️⃣ India – 4248 points, 109 rating

4️⃣ England – 4815 points, 105 rating

5️⃣ New Zealand – 3216 points, 97 rating

6️⃣ Sri Lanka – 2664 points, 86 rating

A Tough Road Ahead for Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka’s win-loss record (5W, 8L) reflects their inconsistency, particularly against the top-ranked sides. Their last two Test matches against Australia resulted in heavy defeats, including an innings and 242-run loss in the first Test and a 9-wicket defeat in the second Test.

While the team showed resilience in home conditions, their overseas performances remain a concern. Moving forward, Sri Lanka will need to rebuild with a focus on developing young talent and strengthening their squad for future Test campaigns.

Meanwhile, the ICC Test Championship final between Australia and South Africa is set to be an exciting battle, with both teams displaying dominant form throughout the tournament. Can Australia claim another title, or will South Africa upset the favorites? Stay tuned for the final showdown!

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Bangladesh to Tour Sri Lanka for Full-Fledged Series in June-July 2025

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Sri Lanka Cricket has confirmed that the Bangladesh National Men’s Team will tour the island from June 13 to July 16, 2025, for a multi-format bilateral series featuring 2 Tests, 3 ODIs, and 3 T20Is.

The tour kicks off with the Test series, which begins on June 17 at Galle International Stadium, followed by the second Test from June 25 to 29 at the SSC in Colombo. This red-ball series will offer crucial preparation and exposure for both sides ahead of the upcoming ICC events.

Sri Lanka holds a dominant record in Test encounters, having won 20 out of 26 matches against Bangladesh. Bangladesh has managed just one win, with five Tests ending in draws. Their last Test series in April 2024 saw Sri Lanka claim a clean sweep in Bangladesh, 2-0.

The limited-overs leg begins with ODIs on July 2 and 5 at R. Premadasa Stadium, before the third match takes place on July 8 at Pallekele — all day-night games starting at 2:30 PM.

The action continues with the T20I series, starting July 10 in Pallekele, followed by matches in Dambulla (July 13) and a final showdown at R. Premadasa Stadium on July 16.

Sri Lanka vs Bangladesh Tour Fixtures – 2025:

  • June 17–21: 1st Test – Galle
  • June 25–29: 2nd Test – SSC, Colombo
  • July 2: 1st ODI – R. Premadasa Stadium
  • July 5: 2nd ODI – R. Premadasa Stadium
  • July 8: 3rd ODI – Pallekele
  • July 10: 1st T20I – Pallekele
  • July 13: 2nd T20I – Dambulla
  • July 16: 3rd T20I – R. Premadasa Stadium

This tour promises exciting cricket as both teams aim to fine-tune their squads across formats.

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Sri Lanka Soars to Fourth in ICC ODI Rankings After Remarkable Year

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Sri Lanka has climbed to 4th place in the latest ICC Men’s ODI Team Rankings, marking a major achievement in the team’s ongoing revival in international cricket. This surge, confirmed after the International Cricket Council’s annual update, reflects a year of consistent and impressive performances.

The upward shift in rankings saw Sri Lanka gain five valuable rating points, pushing them past powerhouse teams like Pakistan and South Africa. Now trailing only India, Australia, and England, Sri Lanka has re-established itself as a major contender in the One Day International (ODI) format.

Key Factors Behind Sri Lanka’s Rise in ODI Rankings

This rankings boost has been fueled by a string of dominant series wins, especially at home. Victories against top-tier teams such as India and Australia have been pivotal. Sri Lanka’s bowling unit has shown exceptional control and discipline, while the batting lineup has evolved into a reliable force, capable of adapting to various match situations.

The leadership of head coach Sanath Jayasuriya and captain Charith Asalanka has been central to this transformation. Jayasuriya’s experience and aggressive tactical approach have revitalized the team, while Asalanka’s calm leadership and key contributions with the bat have earned him praise as a future great.

Youth and Experience Creating a Winning Combination

Emerging stars like Pathum Nissanka, Kamindu Mendis, and Janith Liyanage have provided fresh energy and depth. Their seamless integration alongside veterans has created a balanced and confident unit.

With ICC global tournaments on the horizon, this momentum places Sri Lanka in a strong position to challenge the world’s best. The team’s rise to fourth in the ICC ODI rankings is more than just a number — it’s a testament to their growing belief and ambition on the world stage.

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Sri Lanka Women Stun India in Record-Breaking Run Chase at R. Premadasa

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Sri Lanka Women pulled off a sensational chase to defeat India Women by 3 wickets with 5 balls to spare in a high-scoring thriller at the R. Premadasa Stadium in Colombo during the fourth match of the Women’s ODI Tri-Series 2025. Chasing a formidable target of 276, the home side held their nerve to reach 278/7, registering one of their most memorable victories in ODI history.

India Women, after being put in to bat first, posted a commanding 275/9 in their 50 overs. The innings was anchored by a fluent 50 from Richa Ghosh, who struck 5 fours and 2 sixes in her 42-ball knock. Useful contributions from the top and middle order pushed India past the 250-mark, despite late wickets stalling momentum.

Sri Lanka’s chase started steadily, but the game came alive in the middle overs thanks to key innings from Harshitha Madavi (50 off 57) and skipper Chamari Athapaththu. However, the turning point came when Nilakshika Silva took charge with a blistering 56 off just 33 balls, including 4 boundaries and 3 sixes. Her late onslaught, along with support from the lower middle order, ensured Sri Lanka crossed the finish line at 278/7 in 49.1 overs.

This match also set a record as the highest match aggregate (553 runs) between the two sides in Women’s ODIs, underlining the growing competitiveness of Sri Lanka Women’s cricket on the international stage.

Nilakshika Silva was named Player of the Match for her match-winning knock under pressure.

With this win, Sri Lanka Women have gained valuable momentum and sent a strong message to both opponents in the tri-series, showcasing their depth and fighting spirit.

Match Summary:

  • India Women: 275/9 (Richa Ghosh 50, D Hemalatha 34; SL bowlers shared wickets)
  • Sri Lanka Women: 278/7 in 49.1 overs (Nilakshika Silva 56*, Harshitha Madavi 50)

Tri-Series 2025: Points Table & Team Form Update

With each team having played at least two matches, the Women’s ODI Tri-Series in Sri Lanka is heating up as both India and Sri Lanka have secured two wins each, while South Africa is yet to register a victory.

Points Table (as of May 4, 2025):

  • India Women sit at the top based on a superior Net Run Rate (NRR), despite their 3-wicket loss to Sri Lanka on May 4.
  • Sri Lanka Women made a strong comeback after an opening loss to India, now securing back-to-back wins against South Africa and India.
  • South Africa Women have struggled, with two straight losses and a negative NRR.

The battle for a place in the final is still open, with each upcoming match carrying significant weight.

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