News “Sana Ullah”
SYLHET: Skipper Dhananjaya de Silva and Kamindu Mendis’ resilient centuries, coupled with a formidable opening bowling spell, propelled Sri Lanka to seize early dominance in the first Test of the two-match series against Bangladesh.
Sri Lanka’s Resilience
Sent in to bat first, Sri Lanka battled to compile 280 runs in the initial innings despite facing adversity, highlighted by a marathon 202-run partnership between Mendis and de Silva.
The visiting team, initially struggling, witnessed a rapid succession of wickets, slipping to a precarious 57/5.
Mendis and de Silva Lead the Recovery
Following the setback, Mendis joined his captain in the middle, and together they orchestrated a strong partnership to rescue the visitors.
Displaying composure for over 40 overs, the duo showcased grit as they both notched up courageous centuries before Nahid Rana provided Bangladesh with a breakthrough by dismissing Mendis.
Subsequently, Sri Lanka’s captain de Silva followed suit, falling victim to the Bangladesh comeback a couple of overs later.
Bangladesh Fight Back
Kamindu Mendis and Dhananjaya de Silva emerged as Sri Lanka’s joint top scorers, each accumulating 102 runs.
Bangladesh’s bowlers then dismantled the Sri Lankan batting tail, restricting the touring side to 280 runs.
Khaled Ahmed and Nahid Rana spearheaded the bowling attack for Bangladesh, claiming three wickets each, while Taijul Islam and Shoriful Islam chipped in with one dismissal each.
Bangladesh’s Struggle
In response to Sri Lanka’s 280, Bangladesh faced early turmoil as they ended the day at 32/3, with opener Mahmudul Hasan Joy (9) and night watchman Taijul Islam (0) at the crease.
