Bangladesh pulled off a thrilling 16-run victory against Sri Lanka in the second ODI at the R. Premadasa Stadium in Colombo, leveling the three-match series 1-1. After losing the first match, Bangladesh needed this win to stay alive in the series, and they delivered under pressure.

The match was a rollercoaster, with Sri Lanka's Janith Liyanage threatening to snatch victory from the jaws of defeat with a resilient 78. However, Mustafizur Rahman's timely intervention in the 48th over, dismissing Liyanage, swung the momentum back in Bangladesh's favor.

Bangladesh's innings saw Towhid Hridoy reach a milestone, scoring his 1,000th run in ODIs. Parvez Hossain Emon also contributed a notable 67 runs. However, the batting performance was somewhat shaky, as they were eventually bowled out for 248 in 45.5 overs. Wanindu Hasaranga was a key figure for Sri Lanka, taking his 100th ODI wicket.

Sri Lanka's chase was initially hampered by a stunning spell from Tanvir Islam, who bagged his first five-wicket haul in ODIs. Islam's figures of 5-39 proved crucial in dismantling the Sri Lankan middle order. Despite a shaky start where Kusal Mendis took him for runs, Bangladesh stuck with Islam and were rewarded for their faith. Mendis reached his half-century in just 20 balls, the fastest ODI fifty at the venue, surpassing Thisara Perera's previous record. However, Islam had the last laugh, dismissing Mendis and turning the tide for Bangladesh.

Liyanage's late surge brought Sri Lanka back into contention, but it wasn't enough to overcome the early damage inflicted by Islam and the other Bangladeshi bowlers. Sri Lanka were eventually bowled out for 232 in 48.5 overs.

The match saw debut appearances for Milan Rathnayake (SL) and Parvez Hossain Emon and Tanvir Islam (Ban). Ultimately, Bangladesh's ability to hold their nerve in the crucial moments, coupled with Islam's game-changing spell, secured the victory and leveled the series.