Shanto-Mushfiq’s Twin Centuries Dominate First Day of Galle Test

Sports Desk

At the Galle International Cricket Stadium, Bangladesh captain Najmul Hossain Shanto and veteran batsman Mushfiqur Rahim displayed batting mastery on the opening day of the first Test against Sri Lanka, putting their team in a commanding position with twin centuries.

At stumps on Day 1, Bangladesh stood strong at 292/3, with Mushfiq unbeaten on 105 and Shanto not out on 136. The fourth-wicket partnership between the two yielded an unbroken 247 runs.

After winning the toss and electing to bat on Tuesday (June 17), Bangladesh stumbled early, losing three wickets for just 45 runs. Openers Enamul Haque Bijoy (0), Saadman Islam (14), and Mominul Haque (29) failed to capitalize on their starts. Debutant Tharindu Ratnayake claimed two wickets for Sri Lanka.

However, captain Shanto and Mushfiqur then took charge, rescuing Bangladesh from collapse and seizing control of the match. Their unbeaten 247-run stand became Bangladesh’s highest fourth-wicket partnership against Sri Lanka in Tests.

Shanto, playing a responsible innings, completed his sixth Test century and remained unbeaten on 136 off 202 balls, including 14 fours and 1 six. This marked his first Test ton in 19 months, showcasing one of his finest performances.

Soon after Shanto’s century, Mushfiqur continued his brilliant form, registering his 12th Test hundred and finishing the day on 105*. This was his fourth century against Sri Lanka and his second three-figure score at this venue, having previously scored a double-century here in 2013.

The twin centuries have laid a solid foundation for Bangladesh. Tomorrow, on Day 2, Tiger fans will hope for more from these two experienced batsmen.