Picture Credit: SLC
After suffering a 33-run defeat in the opening match of the series, Sri Lanka were desperate to get a good start in the second ODI. And they exactly got what they wanted through their fast-bowlers Dushmantha Chameera. The 29-year-old bowled one of the most lethal opening spells in limited-overs cricket in recent times as he destroyed the top order of Bangladesh, sending two of their most experienced batsmen back to the pavilion.
Chameera puts Sri Lanka on top in do-or-die clash
The home side got off to a flying start with Isuru Udana conceding 15 runs in the first over of the contest. Kusal Perera introduced Dushmantha Chameera from the other end and the pacer did not take long to weave his magic. The 29-year-old deceived Bangladesh's skipper Tamim Iqbal with quick swinging delivery, stringing him on the front pad. While it was given not-out on the field, Sri Lanka asked for a review and the decision was reversed on referral, giving the visitors an early breakthrough.
With veteran cricketer Shakib Al Hasan at the crease, Bangladesh would have hoped to stabilize their innings after an early loss of wicket. However, Chameera had other plans as he bowled two outstanding deliveries to welcome the all-rounder. With Shakib feeling pressure early in the innings, the fast-bowler bowled a lethal in-swinger, which angled across and hit the pads. The umpire had no hesitation to raise his finger as it looked quite plumb to the naked eye. A double-wicket maiden completely shifted the tides towards the visiting side with Chameera providing his side with a dream start.