The opening Test between Bangladesh and Sri Lanka ended in a draw as bad light and lost time denied Bangladesh a shot at victory. Chasing 296 in 37 overs, Sri Lanka stumbled to 72-4 before stumps were drawn.

Bangladesh skipper Najmul Hossain Shanto starred with centuries in both innings (148 & 125*), becoming only the second Bangladeshi to achieve the feat twice. However, his delayed declaration raised eyebrows, potentially costing Bangladesh a win.

Taijul Islam struck thrice in the fourth innings, while debutant Tharindu Rathnayake impressed for Sri Lanka with six wickets and a stunning run-out. Angelo Mathews bid farewell to Test cricket in his 119th and final match.

The second Test begins next week in Colombo.

Brief scores:

Bangladesh first innings: 495 all out (Mushfiqur Rahim 163, Najmul Hossain Shanto 148, Litton Das 90; Asitha Fernando 4-86)

Sri Lanka first innings: 485 all out (Pathum Nissanka 187, Kamindu Mendis 87, Dinesh Chandimal 54; Nayeem Hasan 5-121)

Bangladesh second innings: 285 for six declared (Najmul Hossain Shanto 125 not out, Shadman Islam 76; Tharindu Rathnayake 3-102)

Sri Lanka second innings: 72 for four (Pathum Nissanka 24; Taijul Islam 3-23)

MN/