Nayeem Hasan Stops the Progress of Sri Lanka
Bangladesh off-spinner Nayeem Hasan claimed 5ᵍʳ for 121, breaking Sri Lanka’s lower-order surge and limiting them to 485, leaving Bangladesh with a slender 10-run first-innings lead. This marks his fourth Test five-wicket haul—a match-changing spell that triggered a collapse of four wickets for just 15 runs. Support from Hasan Mahmud (3/74) was crucial, tying down the tail alongside Nayeem.
Islam’s Resilient 76 Shadman
In Bangladesh’s second innings, Shadman Islam anchored the response with 76 off 126 balls, adding much-needed stability. By close of play, Bangladesh had reached 177/3, building a 187-run lead, with skipper Najmul Hossain Shanto unbeaten on 56.
Match Snapshot Heading Into Final Day
Sri Lanka (1st innings): 485 all out
Bangladesh (1st innings): 495
Bangladesh (2nd innings): 177/3 — leading by 187 runs
Bangladesh’s second-innings strategy, which calls for a declaration of 300+, might make Sri Lanka’s chase difficult, but timing is crucial to allow bowlers adequate time.
Pitch deterioration: Nayeem and the Bangladesh spinners may benefit from Galle’s tendency to favour spin late.
The last time Bangladesh drew at Galle was in 2013, thus a victory here would be a rare away Test triumph.Shadman’s resistance and Nayeem’s off-spin could decide the outcome of the match.
The Last Shot
Nayeem Hasan’s impressive bowling performance put an end to Sri Lanka’s run, while Shadman Islam’s tenacious 76 put Bangladesh in a commanding position. The second Test day offers an exciting finale with a 187-run advantage and early wickets; Sri Lanka might mount a stunning defence, or Bangladesh could steal an unexpected victory.
