Sri Lanka falters: Mushfiqur Rahim’s unbeaten 159 powers Bangladesh dominance at Galle

Bangladesh showcased resilience and dominance in the first Test against Sri Lanka at Galle, largely thanks to Mushfiqur Rahim’s unbeaten 159 and a record-breaking partnership with Najmul Shanto.

After Bangladesh found themselves struggling at 45 for 3, Mushfiqur and Shanto combined to stitch an unbeaten 247-run stand for the fourth wicket, reviving the innings and setting a strong platform. This partnership marked the highest fourth-wicket stand for Bangladesh in Tests against Sri Lanka.

Mushfiqur, who had been under pressure with just 188 runs in his previous 13 innings at an average of 15.67, broke his slump with his 12th Test century at his favorite venue, Galle. This innings was also his seventh Test score of 150 or more and his first fifty-plus score in 14 innings.

Najmul Shanto also impressed, controlling the innings with precision. Rahim praised Shanto’s form and technique, saying, "Shanto has been in good form for a pretty long time. He has a good Test record. He is a good batter. It was nothing special. I was really impressed by his control factor today." Rahim further encouraged Shanto to aim for a double hundred, stating, "Since Shanto doesn't have a double hundred in Test matches, why not aim for one now? Whether it's 200 or 250 - whatever he can manage - it will be a big plus for us."

By the end of day two, Bangladesh had reached 423 for 4, with Litton Das unbeaten on 61, putting them in a commanding position. Despite some close calls, including a survived lbw appeal and missed run-out chances, Bangladesh maintained control.

This performance signals Bangladesh’s growing strength in Test cricket and Mushfiqur’s return to form, setting up an intriguing contest at the Galle International Stadium.

Key stats:
- Mushfiqur Rahim: 159* (unbeaten)
- Partnership with Najmul Shanto: 247* runs for 4th wicket
- Bangladesh score: 423/4 at stumps on day two

Quotes:
"Shanto has been in good form for a pretty long time. He has a good Test record. He is a good batter. It was nothing special. I was really impressed by his control factor today."
"Since Shanto doesn't have a double hundred in Test matches, why not aim for one now? Whether it's 200 or 250 - whatever he can manage - it will be a big plus for us."

Mushfiqur Rahim’s unbeaten 159 powered Bangladesh to dominance over Sri Lanka in the first Test at Galle, forging a record 247-run fourth-wicket partnership with Najmul Shanto after Bangladesh struggled early. The pair revived the innings from 45 for 3 to 423 for 4 by day two.