New Delhi: The opening day of the first Test between Bangladesh and Sri Lanka in Sylhet witnessed a thrilling fightback by the visitors. After early setbacks, Sri Lanka rode on magnificent centuries from captain Dhananjay de Silva (102) and Kamindu Mendis (102) to post a respectable score of 280 runs in the first innings.
By the end of the day’s play, they had further strengthened their grip on the match by reducing Bangladesh to a precarious 32/3, boasting a lead of 248 runs.
From the Brink Back: De Silva & Mendis Stage Epic Rescue Act
Bangladesh’s decision to bowl first seemed to be paying off initially. Sri Lanka’s top order crumbled, with the scorecard reading a concerning 57/5. However, this is where the tide turned dramatically. Captain Dhananjay de Silva and the young Kamindu Mendis stepped onto the stage and displayed remarkable grit and determination.
A Sixth-Wicket Masterclass: Record Partnership Steers Sri Lanka
The duo stitched together a monumental 202-run partnership for the sixth wicket, completely shifting the momentum of the match. Both batsmen reached their tons – De Silva registering his 11th Test century, while Mendis, playing only his second Test, celebrated his maiden three-figure score in style. This crucial partnership not only stabilized the Sri Lankan innings but also put them in a commanding position.
Bowling Woes for Sri Lanka: Top Order Falters
While the middle order heroics were commendable, Sri Lanka’s top order woes cannot be ignored. Apart from De Silva and Mendis, only openers Dimuth Karunaratne (16) and Kusal Mendis (16) managed to reach double digits.
The rest of the batting lineup fell cheaply, exposing a chink in Sri Lanka’s armor. Bangladesh’s fast bowlers, Khalid Ahmed and Nahid Rana, capitalized on this shaky start, taking three wickets apiece. Two Sri Lankan batsmen also fell victim to run-outs, adding to their early struggles.
Early Strikes Put Bangladesh on Back Foot
With a healthy first innings total on the board, Sri Lanka’s bowlers wasted no time in making inroads into the Bangladesh batting line-up. Left-arm fast bowler Vishwa Fernando emerged as the wrecker-in-chief, claiming two wickets.
Kasun Rajitha chipped in with one wicket, leaving Bangladesh reeling at 32/3 at stumps. Openers Mahmudul Hasan Joy (9*) and Taijul Islam (0*) will have a monumental task ahead of them on Day 2, needing to build a strong partnership to avoid a massive first innings deficit.
A Test of Grit: The Battle Continues
This captivating first day has set the stage for a thrilling contest. While Sri Lanka has gained the upper hand with their strong batting display, Bangladesh still has a chance to fight back. The remaining two days promise to be full of cricketing action, with both teams vying for supremacy. The bowlers from both sides will be eager to prove their mettle, while the batsmen will need to display nerves of steel to navigate challenging conditions.
Looking Ahead: Key Questions Remain
Can Sri Lanka’s bowlers take full advantage of their dominant position and dismiss Bangladesh cheaply? Will Bangladesh batsmen be able to weather the storm and put up a fightback? The answers to these questions will determine the outcome of this captivating Test match.
