Jaker Alis memorable debut might not come in a winning-cause but captain Najmul Hossain Shanto paid a rich tribute to his effort.
He praised the youngsters intent that took Bangladesh closer to the victory before Dasun Shanaka used all his experience to deny the hosts a landmark victory.
With Bangladesh requiring 12 runs for the victory in the last over, Shanaka took two wickets including Jaker to restrict Bangladesh to 203-8. Before being dismissed, Jaker struck 68 off 34 with four fours and six sixes.
After Sri Lankas 206-8, Bangladesh made a horrible start by being reduced to 30-3 and then when captain Najmul Hossain Shanto were removed for 20, they were at the receiving end with 68-4.
Veteran Mahmudullah Riyad, playing his first T20 game after 2022, counterattacked with Jaker playing to his second fiddle. Maheesh Theekshana removed Mahmudullah for 54 with Bangladesh at 115-5 in 13.2 overs.
As the hosts still needed 92 runs off 40 balls, everyone looked to write off Bangladeshs chance. But Jaker was the epitome of sheer boldness as he took the mantle from Riyad and unleashed some powerful shots to keep the Lankan bowlers at bay.
Literally without support from the others, he kept the scoreboard ticking as Bangladesh closed in on victory. However at the end, it was so close, yet so far case yet again.
"It was a very good match. The boys showed a lot of character. Jaker Ali came into the team and showed a lot of intent," Shanto told the broadcasters after the match.
"We started well with the ball but did not execute our plans later. Riyads innings was amazing along with Jakers, hope they contribute in the next match as well."
Sri Lankas stand-in captain Charith Asalanka was adjudged man of the match for his six-laden 21 ball-44 and three catches.
He said: "I am very pleased with my performance today. Everyone contributed and did well to get the win. It is short boundaries, lot of dew around and we have to give the bowlers a chance as well." "Special mention to Kusal Mendis and Sadeera Samarawickrama. It was their partnership that laid the platform and gave me the opportunity to play freely." —BSS
