The opening Test between Bangladesh and Sri Lanka concluded on Saturday in a hard-fought draw at the Galle International Stadium, marking a significant end to the venue's 12-year streak of definitive results. Despite a spirited late charge from Bangladesh, who snatched four quick wickets, the hosts successfully navigated the spin threat to secure the stalemate.
Chasing a target of 296 in the fourth innings, Sri Lanka initially faltered, tumbling to 48 for four as Taijul Islam ripped through their top order with three crucial wickets, sparking hopes of a dramatic Bangladeshi triumph. However, the resilient partnership between captain Dhananjaya de Silva and Kamindu Mendis, both finishing unbeaten on 12, ultimately shut down the visitors' victory push. With just five overs remaining, Bangladesh skipper Najmul Hossain Shanto opted to call time, shaking hands on a draw.
Earlier in the day, Shanto had been the architect of Bangladesh's challenging target, notching his second century of the match as his side declared their second innings on 285 for six. This remarkable effort saw him become only the second Bangladeshi batsman, after Mominul Haque, to score centuries in both innings of a Test match – a feat he'd previously achieved against Afghanistan in 2023. His unbeaten 125 in the second innings followed a commanding 148 in the first.
However, the timing of the declaration might well be scrutinised. With only 37 overs left in the day's play when Bangladesh set their target, questions remain whether an earlier declaration could have provided them with sufficient time to truly press for a win on a wearing pitch.
The morning session had been plagued by rain delays, with Bangladesh resuming their innings on 177 for three. Mushfiqur Rahim was the sole casualty before the weather intervened, dismissed for 49 after being run out attempting a quick single, thanks to some sharp fielding and a direct hit from Tharindu Rathnayake. This brought an end to his 109-run fourth-wicket stand with Shanto.
Following a prolonged delay, play finally resumed, and debutant ambidextrous spinner Rathnayake wasted no time making an impact. He clean-bowled Litton Das for three with a delivery that turned sharply, and soon after, had Jaker Ali stumped for just two after beating him in flight.
As Sri Lanka began their fourth innings chase, Taijul Islam and Nayeem Hasan both struck, reducing the hosts to 34 for two by Tea, chasing 296. Taijul accounted for Lahiru Udara (9), stumped, while Nayeem had Pathum Nissanka caught for 24, firmly shifting the momentum towards Bangladesh as the final session approached. With only 29 overs left, all eyes were on veteran Angelo Mathews, playing in his final Test, and Dinesh Chandimal, both unbeaten at Tea, to steer Sri Lanka to safety.
