The first Test match between Sri Lanka and Bangladesh is heading towards a tense and potentially rain-affected conclusion on its final day, June 21, 2025. After days of hard-fought cricket, Bangladesh holds a slight advantage, but persistent rain threatens to wash away their chances of a historic victory on Sri Lankan soil.
As of the latest reports, play has been repeatedly interrupted by showers in Galle. Bangladesh declared their second innings at 285 for 6, setting Sri Lanka a challenging target of 296 for victory. Captain Najmul Hossain Shanto led from the front with a magnificent century, his second of the match, becoming the first Bangladeshi skipper to achieve this feat. He was ably supported by a gritty 76 from Shadman Islam and a valuable 49 from the experienced Mushfiqur Rahim.
In their chase, Sri Lanka are in a precarious position at 34 for 2. The Bangladeshi bowlers, particularly the spinners, have posed a significant threat on a wearing pitch. Taijul Islam and Nayeem Hasan have been instrumental in creating pressure and picking up the crucial wickets of Lahiru Udara and Pathum Nissanka.
The first innings was a high-scoring affair, with Bangladesh posting a formidable 495, thanks to centuries from Mushfiqur Rahim and Najmul Hossain Shanto. Sri Lanka responded strongly with 485, largely due to a career-best 187 from Pathum Nissanka.
With the weather playing a significant role, all three results – a win for either side or a draw – remain a possibility. Bangladesh will be hoping for enough dry spells to press for a win, while Sri Lanka will be looking to their remaining batsmen to either stage an unlikely comeback or bat out the day for a draw.
Recent ODI Clash Sees Bangladesh Triumph
Prior to the Test series, the two teams locked horns in a one-off One Day International (ODI) on June 19, 2025, where Bangladesh emerged victorious by 4 wickets in a closely contested match. Chasing a target of 269, Bangladesh's batting lineup, led by a superb century from Litton Das, saw them home with overs to spare.
Upcoming Fixtures
The cricketing action between the two nations is far from over. Following the conclusion of the first Test, they are scheduled to play a second Test, followed by a three-match ODI series and a three-match T20I series.
Upcoming Schedule:
2nd Test: June 25-29, Colombo (SSC)
1st ODI: July 2, Colombo (RPS)
2nd ODI: July 5, Colombo (RPS)
3rd ODI: July 8, Pallekele
1st T20I: July 10, Pallekele
2nd T20I: July 13, Dambulla
3rd T20I: July 16, Colombo (RPS)
Cricket fans can look forward to more exciting encounters between these two passionate cricketing nations in the weeks to come.
