Mahedi makes match-winning return as Litton reveals tactical inclusion

Mehidy Hasan Miraz replaced Mahedi in Kandy and Dambulla but in the series decider in Colombo, team management made a crucial call—bringing Mahedi back into the XI.

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That decision proved to be a masterstroke as he delivered a match-winning spell of 4/11, earning Player of the Match honours and helping Bangladesh clinch a historic series win on Sri Lankan soil.

Speaking after the victory, captain Litton Das revealed that they had always planned to bring Mehidy in for the final match in Colombo due to the nature of the pitch.

“We believed the Colombo wicket would suit Mahedi’s skillset. That doesn’t mean he can’t perform on batting-friendly pitches, but knowing the last match would be played here, we had planned early on that Mehidy would play this one,” Litton explained.

Mahedi’s return was timely and emphatic. Bowling in the second over, he struck immediately, removing Kusal Perera. He followed up with key scalps of Dinesh Chandimal, Charith Asalanka, and top-scorer Pathum Nissanka (46), finishing with career-best figures of 4 for 11 in four overs, including a maiden.

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Miraz, who was preferred in the first two games, failed to impress—scoring 29 and 1 with the bat and taking one wicket in each match. His underwhelming performance opened the door for Mehidy’s return.

But Litton emphasized that both off-spinners remain in contention based on pitch conditions.

“This doesn’t mean Miraz isn’t a good bowler or batter. As captain, I will always consider the conditions. If I think a pitch will assist bowlers, Mehidy will definitely play. But if it's batting-friendly, Miraz will return,” said Litton.