Galle, June 17 (UNI) A dominant unbeaten partnership between Najmul Hossain Shanto and Mushfiqur Rahim turned the tide in Bangladesh’s favour on the opening day of the first Test against Sri Lanka at Galle today.
After a shaky start that saw three wickets fall for less than 50, the visitors rallied strongly, courtesy a resolute and masterful 247-run unbroken stand between Shanto and Mushfiqur, who remained unbeaten on 136 and 105 respectively at stumps.
Earlier in the morning, Sri Lanka appeared to be in command. Having won the toss and elected to bat on a pitch offering ideal batting conditions, Shanto would have been pleased. But within the first hour, Bangladesh were tottering, losing Anamul Haque, Shadman Islam, and Mominul Haque. Debutant spinner Tharindu Rathnayake struck twice in successive deliveries, while seamer Asitha Fernando provided the early breakthrough.