Rain forces draw in Galle Test despite Shanto’s twin tons

The opening Test between Bangladesh and Sri Lanka at Galle International Stadium ended in a draw, as rain and a docile pitch combined to deny both teams a chance at victory on the final day.

Bangladesh declared their second innings at 285 for 6, setting Sri Lanka a target of 296 runs in a minimum of 39 overs.

However, persistent rain throughout the day, coupled with a wet outfield, meant only 32 overs were possible in Sri Lanka’s second innings. The hosts reached 72 for 4 before both captains agreed to end the match.

Najmul Hossain Shanto was the undisputed star of the Test, scoring centuries in both innings; 148 in the first and an unbeaten 125 in the second, becoming one of the few Bangladeshi batters to achieve the rare feat of twin hundreds in a Test match.

Mushfiqur Rahim also made significant contributions, scoring 163 in the first innings and 49 in the second.

Bangladesh began the match on a strong note, amassing 495 in their first innings, anchored by a 222-run partnership between Shanto and Mushfiqur.

Sri Lanka responded with 485, thanks to a sublime 187 from opener Pathum Nissanka and a solid 87 from Kamindu Mendis.

For Bangladesh, off-spinner Nayeem Hasan stood out with figures of 5 for 121—his maiden five-wicket haul in overseas conditions.

On the fifth morning, Bangladesh resumed with a healthy lead and built a steady fourth-wicket stand of 100 runs between Shanto and Mushfiqur before the latter was dismissed. Rain interrupted play during their partnership, but Shanto reached his second century of the match once play resumed. Bangladesh declared shortly afterward.

Sri Lanka’s chase never looked threatening. Taijul Islam made early inroads, dismissing Lahiru Udara, Dinesh Chandimal, and veteran Angelo Mathews—who was featuring in his final Test appearance. Nayeem Hasan also struck, removing first-innings centurion Nissanka.

While the match ended without a result, Bangladesh will take several positives, particularly Shanto’s form and the improved showing from their spinners.

Sri Lanka, meanwhile, will be assessing their bowling attack ahead of the second Test.