• Pathum Nissanka’s century and Sri Lanka’s brilliant bowling left Bangladesh reeling on Day 3 of second Test.

  • Bangladesh finished the third day at 115/6, still trailing by 96 runs to avoid an innings defeat.

Fans react as Sri Lanka inch closer to victory on Day 3 of second Test against Bangladesh in Colombo
SL vs BAN Day 3 (Image Source: X)

On Day 3 of the second test between Sri Lanka and Bangladesh, the hosts inch closer to pulling up a sensational victory. Till stumps on the third day Bangladesh are reeling on 115 for 6 in their second innings with still 96 to trail. Meanwhile, Sri Lanka after putting up brilliant performance with the bat on the previous day their bowlers have continued the good work today.

Kusal Mendis’ late half century give Sri Lanka big lead on Day 3

After opener Pathum Nissanka set the tone with a brilliant 158 runs, he was well supported by Dinesh Chandimal with his heartbreaking 93 runs. The duo stitched together a solid partnership of 194 runs, taking the game away from Bangladesh. Meanwhile, a late effort by Kusal Mendis with his composed 84 runs stretched the lead to a massive 211 runs, making Sri Lanka favourites to clinch the crucial match of the series in Colombo.

For Bangladesh, it was a dismal performance with the ball. Spinner Taijul Islam was able to put up some resistance with his 5-wicket haul, giving away a total of 131 runs. Apart from him, Nayeem Hasan took 3 wickets, while the rest of the bowlers failed to make any sort of mark against a stronger-looking Lankan lineup.

Also READ: Sri Lanka vs Bangladesh 2025: Head to head record, Probable playing XI for the second Test

Sri Lanka take control as Bangladesh top order crumbles

For Bangladesh, it was a steep uphill climb on Day 3 with a deficit of 211 runs. Starting with a 30-run stand between Shadman Islam and Anamul Haque, the top order was marked by poor shot selection. Even after getting some good starts, none of the batters were able to convert them into big scores. Veteran Mushfiqur Rahim was the top scorer with a 26-run knock. With Litton Das still at the crease, Bangladesh can hold on to a little hope from here.

For the hosts, it was a fantastic day with the ball. Prabath Jayasuriya once again shone with two wickets, well supported by Dhananjaya de Silva, who also claimed two important wickets — including that of twin centurion from the last game, Najmul Hossain Shanto. With just four wickets remaining, the Sri Lankan bowlers will go into Day 4 full of confidence.

Here’s how fans reacted:

Also READ: Fans erupt as Pathum Nissanka, Dinesh Chandimal put Sri Lanka in command on Day 2 of second Test against Bangladesh

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About the Author:
Varun Verma is a dedicated cricket enthusiast with a flair for storytelling and in-depth analysis. Combining a deep knowledge of the sport with a talent for engaging content creation, he brings the drama and thrill of the game to life for fans around the world. Drawing inspiration from the grit and passion of players like Ben Stokes, Varun aspires to one day experience the electrifying atmosphere of a Test match at the iconic Lord’s Cricket Ground. He can be reached at varun.verma@crickettimes.com and followed on LinkedIn and X.