The first Test match of the two-match series between Bangladesh and Sri Lanka, played at the Galle International Stadium from June 17 to 21, ended in a thrilling draw. The five-day contest saw several standout performances from both sides, especially Bangladesh captain Najmul Hossain Shanto, who struck centuries in both innings (148 and 125*), earning him the Player of the Match award.
1st Innings: Bangladesh Posts Massive 495
Opting to bat first after winning the toss, Bangladesh posted a mammoth 495 in their first innings. Mushfiqur Rahim played a superb knock of 163 off 350 balls, while skipper Shanto anchored the innings with a solid 148 off 279 deliveries. The duo added a crucial 226-run partnership for the second wicket. For Sri Lanka, pacer Asitha Fernando picked up 4 wickets, and Milan Rathnayake claimed 3.
Sri Lanka’s Response: Nissanka Steals the Show
Sri Lanka responded strongly, riding on a magnificent innings from opener Pathum Nissanka, who smashed 187 runs off 256 balls. Kamindu Mendis supported him well with a composed 87. The visitors reached 485, trailing Bangladesh by just 10 runs. Off-spinner Nayeem Hasan was the pick of the bowlers for Bangladesh with a five-wicket haul (5/121), while Hasan Mahmud took 3 wickets.
2nd Innings Drama: Shanto Strikes Again, Match Drawn
In the second innings, Bangladesh went for quick runs, declaring at 285/6 after 87 overs. Najmul Hossain Shanto once again led from the front with an unbeaten 125, while Shadman Islam contributed 76. Tharindu Rathnayake took 3 wickets for Sri Lanka.
Set a target of 296, Sri Lanka struggled in their chase, reaching only 72/4 before time ran out. Taijul Islam bowled brilliantly, taking 3 wickets in 16 overs, and Nayeem Hasan added one more to his tally.
Despite the absence of a result, the Test offered gripping cricket throughout, marked by strong individual performances. With the series still level at 0-0, all eyes will now be on the second and final Test, where both teams will look to clinch the series.
