• Najmul Hossain Shanto and Mushfiqur Rahim's centuries powered Bangladesh to a dominant position on Day 1 of the Galle Test.

  • Shanto and Rahim's partnership rescued Bangladesh through early troubles and closed the day on 292/3.

Fans go gaga as Najmul Shanto and Mushfiqur Rahim headline Bangladesh’s dominance over Sri Lanka on Day 1 of the Galle Test
Najmul Shanto and Mushfiqur Rahim headline Bangladesh's dominance over Sri Lanka on Day 1 of the Galle Test (Image source: X)

Table of Contents

The opening day of the first Test between Sri Lanka and Bangladesh at Galle unfolded as a showcase of grit, resilience, and batting brilliance, with the visitors seizing the initiative in emphatic fashion. Bangladesh, having won the toss and opting to bat first on a dry, turning surface, overcame early setbacks to end Day 1 in a commanding position at 292 for 3, thanks to outstanding centuries from skipper Najmul Hossain Shanto and veteran Mushfiqur Rahim.

From Early wobbles to unbreakable partnership of Najmul Hossain Shanto and Mushfiqur Rahim

Bangladesh’s innings began on a cautious note, with Sri Lanka’s bowlers exploiting the new ball and the surface’s early assistance. Asitha Fernando struck first, removing Anamul Haque for a duck. The real threat, however, came from debutant spinner Tharindu Rathnayake, who claimed two quick wickets—Shadman Islam for 14 and Mominul Haque for 29—both caught at slip by captain Dhananjaya de Silva. By the 17th over, Bangladesh were reeling at 45 for 3, and the hosts sensed an opportunity to dictate terms.

But it was at this juncture that Shanto and Rahim came together, demonstrating poise under pressure. They steadied the ship with a measured approach, blunting the Sri Lankan attack and gradually shifting the momentum. Their partnership was built on patience, precise shot selection, and the ability to punish loose deliveries. By lunch, Bangladesh had reached 90 for 3, with Shanto and Rahim unbeaten and looking increasingly assured.

Centurions shine as Bangladesh seize control over Sri Lanka by the end of the day

The post-lunch session saw the duo shift gears. Shanto (136*), leading by example, reached his century with a blend of classical drives and deft sweeps, bringing up his sixth Test hundred and his second against Sri Lanka. His innings was a masterclass in concentration, lasting 246 balls and featuring 14 boundaries and a six. Rahim, the ever-reliable stalwart, complemented his skipper with a composed knock, reaching his unbeaten 105 off 186 balls, laced with five boundaries.

Their partnership, unbroken at stumps, swelled to over 230 runs for the fourth wicket—a record stand that not only rescued Bangladesh from a precarious position but also put them firmly in the driver’s seat. The Sri Lankan bowlers, despite early promise, struggled for breakthroughs as the pitch eased out and the batters grew in confidence. Rathnayake finished the day with two wickets, but his initial heroics were overshadowed by the relentless accumulation from Shanto and Rahim.

By the close of play, Bangladesh’s scoreboard read 292/3 in 90 overs, with a healthy run rate of 3.24. The last session saw the pair continue untroubled, negotiating the second new ball with ease and setting up Bangladesh for a potential mammoth total. The crowd in Galle and fans back home were left in awe as Shanto and Rahim’s centuries powered Bangladesh’s dominance, promising more fireworks as the Test progresses.

Also READ: Fans erupt as Najmul Hossain Shanto hits a gritty century on Day 1 of the first Test – SL vs BAN

Here’s how fans reacted:

Also READ: WATCH: Angelo Mathews receives Guard of Honour on the opening day of Galle Test

Subscribe to Cricket Times on YouTube to watch Exclusive Interviews, Podcasts, Daily News Updates & Explainers.

TAGS:

CATEGORY: Bangladesh Featured Mushfiqur Rahim Najmul Hossain Shanto Sri Lanka Test

For latest cricket news and updates, subscribe to our Weekly Newsletter.

About the Author:
AKASH THAPA
Akash Thapa is a dedicated cricket journalist with three years of experience in the media industry. A BA (JMC) graduate from VIPS, GGSIPU, and a postgraduate in MAJMC from the University of Lucknow, Akash combines his academic credentials with a deep-rooted passion for cricket.His background as a former junior-level wrestler and cricketer enriches his insightful analysis and commentary on the game. Known for his inventive approach to writing and his commitment to capturing the nuances of cricket, Akash is a true aficionado of the sport.Connect with Akash on LinkedIn, X, and Instagram.