Mahedi was 'first name in the line-up' for Colombo T20I, says Litton

Mahedi starred for Bangladesh with career-best figures of 4-11 in the shortest format as Bangladesh stormed to an eight-wicket victory over Sri Lanka in Colombo.

That result secured Bangladesh's first T20I series win over Sri Lanka, while it was also just the second time they had won a series in the format after trailing the first game.

Mahedi led from the off and dismantled Sri Lanka's top order, taking two wickets in the powerplay with the dismissals of Kusal Perera and Dinesh Chandimal early on.

He has now taken 30 wickets in T20I powerplay overs since January 2021, while also removing Pathum Nissanka and Charith Asalanka in the match.

Despite not playing in the first two games of the series, Litton brought Mahedi into the side for the third game due to the bowler-friendly surface in Colombo.

"We felt that Mahedi's skills would be a perfect fit for the Colombo wicket," Litton said after Bangladesh's series win.

"It doesn't mean he doesn't bowl well on other wickets. I had planned it as soon as I saw the schedule that Mahedi will be my first name in the line-up at this venue.

Smiles, Pride, and a Piece of History!Bangladesh team poses with the trophy after clinching their first-ever T20I series victory on Sri Lankan soil. #BCB | #BangladeshCricket #T20I pic.twitter.com/aQjugghQNP

— Bangladesh Cricket (@BCBtigers) July 16, 2025

"It also doesn't mean that Mehidy [Hasan Miraz] is not a good bowler or batter. As a team leader, I will think deeply about the surface before choosing a team.

"A bowling-friendly surface will always make me pick Mahedi. If it is batting-friendly, Miraz will come back into the team.

"It is a proud moment for me as a captain. I am happy that the fans are also happy seeing us win a T20I series in Sri Lanka.

"We always try to give our 100% in the middle. We train in the way that we can give 100% in the middle. I always had the belief.