Bangladesh seized firm control on Day 1 of the Galle Test against Sri Lanka, largely thanks to magnificent centuries from Najmul Hossain Shanto and Mushfiqur Rahim.
Despite a shaky start that saw Bangladesh reeling at 45 for 3, the duo forged an unbroken 247-run partnership, completely nullifying the early gains made by the Sri Lankan bowlers.
By stumps, Najmul Hossain Shanto stood unbeaten on a commanding 136, while the experienced Mushfiqur Rahim provided excellent support, reaching 105 not out.
Their resilient partnership underscored Bangladesh’s strategic batting display on a pitch that proved more favorable to batsmen than typically expected in Galle.
Sri Lanka’s early jubilation, sparked by quick wickets from Asitha Fernando and debutant spinner Tharindu Rathnayake, quickly faded. Tharindu, who had a dream start to his Test career by snaring two wickets in consecutive deliveries, was subsequently targeted by Shanto.
The Bangladeshi opener’s aggressive approach against Tharindu, particularly in the morning session, significantly disrupted the debutant’s rhythm and allowed Bangladesh to regain momentum.
Of Shanto’s 15 boundaries, ten came off Tharindu’s bowling, highlighting his intent to dominate the spinner.
While Sri Lankan seamer Milan Rathnayake maintained an economical spell, the bulk of the bowling was shouldered by the spin duo of Prabath Jayasuriya and Tharindu Rathnayake.
However, once Shanto and Mushfiqur settled in, they rarely faced serious threats, patiently accumulating runs and ensuring the run rate consistently hovered between 3 and 3.5 runs per over.
The final session saw Bangladesh accelerate further, ticking along at nearly four runs an over as the Sri Lankan bowlers showed signs of fatigue.
Bangladesh’s decision to bat first after winning the toss proved prescient, as they are now ideally positioned to build a formidable total.
This dominant performance on Day 1 sets a strong foundation for Bangladesh, leaving Sri Lanka with a significant challenge ahead as they look to break this formidable partnership and get back into the game.