Dasun Shanaka Returns to Form with Blistering Knock Against Bangladesh
SPORTS NEWS
Sri Lankan all-rounder Dasun Shanaka has answered his critics in style with a blazing 62 off 38 balls in today's ODI clash against Bangladesh at the R. Premadasa Stadium. Coming in during a shaky phase, Shanaka’s power-packed innings stabilized the Sri Lankan middle order and helped the team post a defendable total in their ongoing bilateral series.
Shanaka, who has been under pressure due to a string of low scores and injury concerns earlier this year, played with freedom and intent — finding boundaries with ease and finishing with a strike rate of over 160.
Shanaka’s Innings Snapshot:
Runs: 62 (38 balls)
Fours: 5
Sixes: 3
Partnership: 78-run stand with Charith Asalanka
Strike Rate: 163.15
What He Said:
Dasun Shanaka (Post-Match): “I knew I had to deliver today. The team backed me, and I just focused on staying positive. It’s been a tough phase, but I never lost belief.”
Match Context:
Sri Lanka Total: 278/8 in 50 overs
Bangladesh (at latest update): 117/4 in 25 overs
Series: 2nd ODI in 3-match series (Sri Lanka leads 1-0)
Trending Moment:
Shanaka raising his bat after a fifty with a wide smile and the Sri Lankan flag waving in the background is now going viral across cricket pages.
Why This Matters:
Shanaka, who captained Sri Lanka through their 2022–2023 white-ball resurgence, has recently struggled with form and was dropped from leadership duties. Today’s knock, however, could mark the beginning of his comeback — not just as a player, but possibly a future leader again.
Social Media Reactions:
“DASUN IS BACK! Vintage hitting from the lion-hearted Lankan.”
“This is the Shanaka we need in the World Cup squad!”
“Power, poise, and presence — Shanaka silences doubters!”
What’s Next:
Sri Lanka will play the final ODI on July 10, where they’ll aim for a series sweep. All eyes will be on Dasun Shanaka to continue this return to form with the T20 World Cup 2025 just a few months away.
Stay updated with The Entire Times for all the latest on Sri Lanka Cricket, match coverage, and player performances across international cricket.