Nissanka Steals the Show
Day 3 opener Pathum Nissanka led Sri Lanka to 368/4 after smashing a career-best 187, his first Test hundred at home, cutting the gap to 127 runs behind Bangladesh’s first innings 495. His steady, well-timed knock pushed the hosts back in the game with 23 fours, a six, and a vital 157-run partnership with Dinesh Chandimal.
Match Momentum & Context
Based on the outstanding centuries of Mushfiqur Rahim (163) and Najmul Hossain Shanto (148), Bangladesh added 495. Nissanka made the most of the batting conditions in Galle, where the pitch has remained calm for batsmen.
Current Status & Stakes
At the close of Day 4, Bangladesh resumed briskly, reaching 177/3 in their second innings—leading by 187 runs, with a full day remaining and a deteriorating pitch that favors spinners. Sri Lanka now need to chase ~375 runs on Day 5, a steep task on a wearing track—a pitch more conducive to bowling attacks.
Things to Look Out for on Day 5
Bangladesh’s goal: On a wicket that is conducive to spin, they will build up a difficult fourth-inning chase, probably involving 300+ runs.
Roles in the squad: Can the bowlers from Sri Lanka, particularly Nayeem Hasan, who was the hero of Bangladesh’s second innings, take advantage of the circumstances.
Historic outcome: Given previous performance, a victory by Bangladesh would just be their second in a Test series in Sri Lanka.
In conclusion, a brilliant innings from Nissanka saved Sri Lanka from a dire situation, paving the way for an exciting Day 5. Bangladesh’s early gains and impressive batting performance in the second innings had put them up by 187 runs. Whether Bangladesh wins a historic away Test match or Sri Lanka chases the total will be decided on the last day.
