BAN vs SL: Mehidy Hasan Miraz 4-Fer, Mushfiqur Rahim 84 Helps Bangladesh Beat Sri Lanka By 33 Runs

Mehidy Hasan Miraz's four-wicket haul, coupled with wicketkeeper Mushfiqur Rahim's 84, helped Bangladesh beat Sri Lanka by 33 runs. Sri Lanka were all out for 224 in reply to Bangladesh's

The match was thrown into uncertainty as fast bowler Udana and bowling coach Chaminda Vaas also tested Covid-19 positive alongside Fernando. A second test cleared Udana and Vaas of the virus and the match began on time.

Sri Lankan players, who are also involved in pay row with country's cricket authorities ahead of the series, were led by Kusal Perera. "Losing isn't good, but we had a lot of positives. The bowlers bowled in the right directions. Batting wise Wanindu (Hasaranga) did a good job," said Perera.

Bangladesh skipper Tamim Iqbal hit 52 before Dhananjaya de Silva's two wickets in two balls in the 23rd over put them in trouble at 99-4. Mushfiqur and Mahmudullah then put on a key stand to thwart the Sri Lankan bowling with some attacking batting.

Mushfiqur's 87-ball innings ended when he was caught by Udana at short third man off Lakshan Sandakan while attempting a reverse sweep. "It wasn't an easy wicket to bat on, we lost a couple of early wickets but I thought Tamim batted really well. I took my time and Riyad too batted well," said player of the match Mushfiqur.

Mahmudullah's dismissal to de Silva, who claimed 3-45, meant Bangladesh were unable to find a late spark they were looking for. Number seven Afif Hossain's 22-ball 27 helped Bangladesh go past the 250-run mark.

"Winning is happiness. Boys are really happy. We hope we can put on a better show next time," said Bangladesh captain Tamim. The second match will be held at the same ground on Tuesday.