Colombo, June 25, 2025 – Sri Lanka took firm control on Day 1 of the first Test against Bangladesh at the Sinhalese Sports Club in Colombo, reducing the visitors to 220/8 by stumps. Despite Bangladesh opting to bat first on what appeared to be a batter-friendly pitch, it was Sri Lanka who walked off with the upper hand, showcasing superior discipline and strategy throughout the day.
Play was halted with around 10 overs remaining due to poor light, and Sri Lanka will be pleased with their performance. Bangladesh, on the other hand, will be frustrated with their shot selection and inability to build lasting partnerships. The total of 220/8 does not reflect the favorable batting conditions, and reckless strokes may prove costly as the Test progresses.
The morning session started evenly with Bangladesh at 71/2. Sri Lanka’s pacers struck early, removing opener Mahmudul Hasan Joy cheaply. Although Shadman Islam and Mominul Haque tried to stabilize the innings, Sri Lanka continued to apply pressure. After Mominul’s dismissal, Najmul Hossain Shanto joined Shadman to keep the scoreboard ticking, but the hosts kept creating opportunities.
The second session was disrupted by rain, limiting play to just 23 overs. Yet Sri Lanka made the most of it, snatching three crucial wickets and pushing Bangladesh to 144/5. Debutant Sonal Dinusha made an instant impact, removing Litton Das after a brief resistance. Shadman and Shanto also departed during this phase, handing further momentum to Sri Lanka in this Test opener.
In the final session, Mushfiqur Rahim and Mehidy Hasan Miraz attempted a recovery but failed to convert their starts. Mushfiqur perished trying to play an aggressive shot off Dinusha, while Mehidy was caught at first slip. Nayeem Hasan also fell late in the day, leaving Bangladesh clinging to hope with just two wickets in hand.
Sri Lanka’s bowlers, led by their young debutant and supported by experienced pacers, executed their plans efficiently. It was a day that clearly belonged to Sri Lanka in this opening Test. As the action resumes on Day 2, all eyes will be on whether Bangladesh can stretch their innings and how Sri Lanka responds with the bat in this crucial Test encounter.