Galle, June 18, 2025: Bangladesh remained in control of the first Test against Sri Lanka at the Galle International Stadium despite a late fightback from the hosts on the rain-affected second day of play.
Resuming their first innings at 292/3, the visitors extended their total to 484/9 by stumps, adding 192 runs for the loss of six wickets. The day began positively for Bangladesh, with overnight centurions Najmul Hossain Shanto and Mushfiqur Rahim continuing their dominance. However, a two-hour rain delay in the afternoon disrupted their rhythm and allowed Sri Lanka to claw their way back into the contest.
Bangladesh were firmly placed at 458/4 when Mushfiqur Rahim, in sublime form, was dismissed by Asitha Fernando in the 141st over. His wicket triggered a dramatic collapse, as the visitors lost five wickets for just 36 runs.
Rahim was the standout performer, crafting a marathon innings of 163 from 350 balls, including nine boundaries. Shanto, who fell early in the morning session, also played a crucial role with a composed 148 off 279 deliveries, featuring 15 fours and a six.
Wicketkeeper-batter Litton Das added stability in the middle order with a fluent 90 off 123 balls, laced with 12 boundaries and a six. His 149-run partnership with Rahim for the fifth wicket formed the backbone of Bangladesh’s innings.
Sri Lanka’s bowling unit found their rhythm in the latter half of the day. Milan Rathnayake, Asitha Fernando, and Tharindu Rathnayake each claimed three wickets, helping restrict Bangladesh’s lower order.
Tailenders Hasan Mahmud and Nahid Rana, both yet to open their accounts, will resume Bangladesh’s innings at 484/9 on the third day.
The match remains delicately poised, with Bangladesh holding the upper hand on the scoreboard, but Sri Lanka’s late surge giving the hosts a glimmer of hope heading into day three.
