Bangladesh surprised many with an impressive batting display on a traditionally batter-friendly Galle pitch, followed by a disciplined bowling effort that kept Sri Lanka from gaining any significant advantage.
Despite a valiant reply from the hosts, they only briefly held a slender lead before Bangladesh took control again in their second innings.
At lunch on Day 5, Bangladesh reached 237 for 4, leading Sri Lanka by 247 runs, before rain forced the umpires to call an early break.
Although the rain has stopped and covers have been removed, several overs were lost, potentially affecting the remainder of the day’s play. If Bangladesh does not bat again, their bowlers could still exploit the rain-affected surface to push for a result.
Earlier, the fourth day had begun with Sri Lanka well poised, thanks to a gritty innings from Kamindu Mendis, who built on the third-day momentum provided by Pathum Nissanka.
However, Mendis's dismissal triggered a collapse, and the hosts were eventually bowled out for 485, securing only a 10-run lead.
In their second innings, Bangladesh showed intent from the outset. At stumps on Day 4, they had reached 177 for 3, holding a lead of 187 runs. Skipper Nazmul Hossain Shanto and veteran Mushfiqur Rahim resumed the innings on the final morning, continuing their steady partnership.
Shanto looked in fine touch, bringing up his fifty and remaining unbeaten on 89 by lunch. Mushfiqur, too, appeared set for his 28th Test half-century before a miscommunication led to his dismissal.
In the 76th over, Shanto tapped the ball gently, prompting Mushfiqur to respond with a quick single. However, Shanto held back, and by the time Mushfiqur attempted to retreat to his crease, Prabath Jayasuriya had already broken the stumps with a direct hit. Mushfiqur was run out for 49, just one short of his fifty.
Shortly after the run-out, rain interrupted play, halting Bangladesh’s charge. Although conditions have improved and the covers have been removed, the delay has cost several overs — a concern for Bangladesh, who may want to force a result before time runs out.
With a healthy lead on the board and a pitch that may offer assistance post-rain, Bangladesh still hold a strong chance to press for victory — provided the weather cooperates and their bowlers rise to the occasion.
SMS/
