Fernando guides Sri Lanka to 70-run victory

COLOMBO, July 20 (Reuters) Pace bowler Dilhara Fernando claimed four wickets for 24 to help Sri Lanka to a 70-run victory against Bangladesh in the first one-day international today.

At one stage Bangladesh were well placed to spring an upset, on 45 for no wicket and chasing a modest 235-run target but Fernando inspired a spectacular collapse and Bangladesh were eventually bowled out for 164 in 40.3 overs.

Earlier, the Bangladeshi bowlers applied pressure after winning the toss and Sri Lanka slumped to 67 for three after the early loss of Sanath Jayasuriya (21), Kumar Sangakkara (16) and Mahela Jayawardene (two).

Upul Tharanga (57) and Chamara Silva (65) repaired the damage with an 83-run partnership for the fourth wicket, and when Tharanga's 104-ball innings ended Silva added a further 40 with Tillakaratne Dilshan (24).

REUTERS BJR KN1902