Mahedi Hasan Breaks Harbhajan’s Record, Powers Bangladesh to Historic T20I Series Win Over Sri Lanka

Spinner Mahedi Hasan produced a sensational spell of 4-1-11-4 in the series-deciding T20I against Sri Lanka, leading Bangladesh to a memorable victory and a bit of history at the R Premadasa Stadium in Colombo.

Opening the bowling, Mahedi dismantled Sri Lanka’s top order with two scalps inside the powerplay and two more soon after, restricting the hosts to a modest 132/7. His spell saw him break the record previously held by Harbhajan Singh for the best bowling figures by a visiting player in a T20I at the venue. Harbhajan’s 4/12 against England during the 2012 T20 World Cup had stood unbeaten for over a decade.

While Wanindu Hasaranga holds the overall record at the venue with 4/9, Mahedi’s figures now rank as the best by a visiting bowler, surpassing close attempts from Josh Hazlewood (4/16) and Mustafizur Rahman (4/21).

Mahedi’s Impactful Spell

Playing his first match of the entire tour, Mahedi made an immediate impact, coming in for the experienced Mehidy Hasan Miraz. He dismissed Kusal Perera for a golden duck in just his second over. He then removed Dinesh Chandimal, Charith Asalanka, and completed his spell with a sharp caught-and-bowled dismissal of Pathum Nissanka, who was threatening on 46.

His spell not only derailed Sri Lanka’s innings but set up a comfortable chase for Bangladesh.

Tanzid Seals the Chase

Chasing 133, opener Tanzid Hasan ensured there were no hiccups, smashing an unbeaten 73 off 47 balls, laced with six sixes. Bangladesh lost just two wickets and cruised home with 21 balls to spare, sealing the match and the series win.

This victory caps off a successful multi-format tour for Bangladesh and marks a significant moment for Mahedi Hasan, whose return to the XI could not have been more emphatic.