Bangladesh prevail in tense finish against Sri Lanka Invitation XI

A match winning 92 not out by Aftab Ahmed ensured a 3 wicket Bangladesh win over Sri Lanka invitation XI in the only practice match of the three match ODI series at Police Park Ground in Colombo today.

Winning toss Sri Lanka XI decided to bat first and posted a competitive 241 for 5 in the stipulated 50 overs. Sri Lanka Academy Team opener NT Paranavitana

Aftab guides Bangladesh to victory © Cricinfo

top scored with an unbeaten 63 while Sri Lanka Academy team captain Ian Daniel struck a fine 57. Syed Rasel and Sakib Al Hasan grabbed two wickets each for 37 and 41 runs respectively.

In reply to a victory target of 242, Bangladesh chase was initially thwarted by Sri Lankan new ball bowlers as Shahriar Nafees, Captain Mohammad Ashraful and Tushar Imran failed to reach double figures. After losing opener Tamim Iqbal for 45 runs, Bangladesh were in a spot of bother on 112-5 at the end of 29 overs.

Aftab Ahmed and young wicketkeeper Mushfiqur Rahim steadied Bangladesh innings and after the departure of Mushfiq, Aftab found a partner in Farhad Reza to carry Bangladesh towards victory. Mushfiqur Rahim scored 25 runs while Farhad Reza added 26 runs to Bangladesh total.

The first match of the three match ODI series will be played on 20th July at P Sara Stadium in Colombo.