Towhid Hridoy's impressive unbeaten 96 couldn't prevent Bangladesh from a three-wicket loss to Sri Lanka in the second ODI at Chattogram's Zahur Ahmed Chowdhury Stadium on Friday March 15th.

Pathum Nissanka's blazing 114 off 113 balls, accompanied by Charith Asalanka's aggressive 91 off 93 balls, helped Sri Lanka level the three-match series, following Bangladesh's initial six-wicket win. The duo's 185-run partnership, a new fourth-wicket record for Sri Lanka, steered them to victory, chasing Bangladesh's 286-7 with 287-7 in 47.1 overs.

Despite Soumya Sarkar's solid 68, Bangladesh faltered, with Liton Das enduring another duck. Skipper Najmul Hossain Shanto and Soumya put up a fight, but Sri Lanka's bowlers, particularly Wanindu Hasaranga, proved formidable.

Towhid Hridoy's aggressive play added crucial runs, but Bangladesh knew their total wasn't enough for victory. Sri Lanka's early struggles were countered by Nissanka and Asalanka's astute partnership, steering them towards victory.

Bangladesh managed to dismiss both set batsmen but couldn't prevent Sri Lanka's win, denting their hopes of sealing the series with one game to spare. The decisive third game is scheduled for Monday March 18th.