Galle — Sri Lankan opener Pathum Nissanka crafted a majestic 187-run innings on Day 3 of the opening Test against Bangladesh, placing the hosts in a strong position as they ended the day at 368/4, trailing by just 127 runs on a placid Galle surface.
In what was his first Test century on home soil, Nissanka’s knock blended elegance with patience, firmly anchoring Sri Lanka’s reply to Bangladesh’s mammoth 495-run first innings total. His performance, alongside crucial contributions from Dinesh Chandimal, Angelo Mathews, and others, has swung the momentum back in favor of the home side.
Sri Lanka Responds Strongly After Bangladesh’s Top Order Fireworks
Bangladesh's first innings featured standout performances from Mushfiqur Rahim (163), Najmul Hossain Shanto (148), and Litton Das (90). Their innings, spread across nearly two full days, was expected to set the tone for the match. However, Sri Lanka, led by Nissanka’s command at the crease, counterattacked with skill and resolve.
Key Highlights:
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Pathum Nissanka hit 187 off 256 balls, his highest Test score to date.
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Chandimal and Nissanka shared a 157-run stand for the second wicket.
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Angelo Mathews, in his final Test match, scored a composed 39.
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Captain Dhananjaya de Silva (17*) and Kamindu Mendis (37*) held firm at stumps.
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Hasan Mahmud ended Nissanka’s innings with the second new ball.
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Bangladesh fast bowlers, including debutant Nahid Rana, struggled for breakthroughs.
Coach Shaun Tait: "We Missed the Mark with the New Ball"
Bangladesh’s pace bowling coach Shaun Tait acknowledged the team’s lackluster start with the new ball, citing missed chances and underwhelming execution:
“It’s a good batting wicket, but we could’ve done more with the new ball. That first spell could’ve set the tone, and we fell short. The bowlers worked hard, but conditions didn’t help,” Tait said post-match.
Tait also expressed confidence in Nahid Rana, despite conceding 80 runs in 16 wicketless overs, stating that the 21-year-old has shown immense promise early in his Test career.
Nissanka on Missing the Double Ton: "It Was a Good Ball"
Nissanka, who was clean bowled on 187 by Hasan Mahmud, said he had been aware of the new ball threat:
“I knew I had to be cautious, but I felt the shot was on. Credit to the bowler. It was a good delivery,” he reflected. “It feels special to get my first home century, especially after struggling to convert starts recently.”
Social Media Reactions
Fans took to X (formerly Twitter) to celebrate Nissanka’s sublime knock and question Bangladesh’s bowling tactics:
🔹 @CricRaja: “Nissanka batting like he owns Galle. Pure timing, elegant footwork, and no nonsense. Deserved a double 💯.”
🔹 @BDTigersFan98: “Bangladesh bowlers needed to strike early with the new ball. Instead, we handed Nissanka the stage. Gritty knock tho!”
What This Means for Both Sides
With two full days left and the pitch still favoring batters, Sri Lanka is in a prime position to either surpass or come close to Bangladesh’s total, setting up a nail-biting final two days. Bangladesh must regroup and capitalize early on Day 4, especially with the second new ball.
According to cricket strategist and columnist Arjuna Ramanayake:
“If Sri Lanka secures a first-innings lead, it will be a psychological blow to Bangladesh, given their batting dominance early on. The Galle pitch hasn’t deteriorated much, but Day 5 could offer help to spinners.”
FAQs
Q: What is the current score of the Sri Lanka vs Bangladesh 1st Test?
A: At stumps on Day 3, Sri Lanka is 368/4 in reply to Bangladesh’s 495.
Q: Who were the top performers so far in the match?
A: For Bangladesh – Mushfiqur Rahim (163), Najmul Hossain Shanto (148); for Sri Lanka – Pathum Nissanka (187), Dinesh Chandimal (54).
Q: How did the pitch behave on Day 3?
A: The Galle pitch remained a batting paradise with minimal turn or seam movement, making it tough for bowlers.
Q: When is Day 4 scheduled?
A: Day 4 begins on June 20 at 10:00 AM local time in Galle. Weather forecast is clear.
Q: Where to watch Sri Lanka vs Bangladesh Test live?
A: The match is streamed live on SonyLIV (India) and Sri Lanka Cricket’s official YouTube channel (for select regions). Also available via ICC.tv globally.