Sri Lanka Vs Bangladesh Live Score, 1st Test Day 1: Follow Scorecard And Match Action From Galle

News18

5 hours ago

A new chapter in the fierce rivalry between Sri Lanka and Bangladesh is set to unfold as the two nations lock horns in the first Test of their two-match series, commencing at the iconic Galle International Stadium. This encounter marks the beginning of the 2025-27 ICC World Test Championship cycle for both teams, adding significant weight and context to the contest. The hosts, Sri Lanka, will enter the series with a blend of seasoned veterans and fresh faces, signaling a period of transition for the island nation. The match holds special significance as it will be the farewell Test for the stalwart all-rounder Angelo Mathews, who will be bidding adieu to the longest format of the game at the very venue where his illustrious career began. Under the leadership of Dhananjaya de Silva, Sri Lanka will be looking to leverage their home advantage and start the new WTC cycle on a positive note. Their recent Test form in 2025 has been challenging, with two losses in as many matches, and they will be eager to reverse that trend. Across the Palk Strait, Bangladesh arrives with a sense of cautious optimism. While their overall head-to-head record in Test cricket against Sri Lanka is heavily skewed in favour of the Lankans (20 wins to 1 in 26 matches), the Tigers have shown immense improvement and fighting spirit in recent years. Led by the capable Najmul Hossain Shanto, Bangladesh will be aiming to build on their solitary Test victory against Sri Lanka and prove their mettle in challenging away conditions. Their form in 2025 has been a mixed bag, with one win and one loss in the two Tests they have played. Sri Lanka has named a new-look 18-member squad for the first Test, indicating a focus on building a team for the future. The spotlight will undoubtedly be on Angelo Mathews as he dons the whites for one last time. His experience and calming presence in the middle order will be invaluable. The batting will revolve around captain Dhananjaya de Silva, the consistent Pathum Nissanka, and the experienced Dinesh Chandimal. The bowling attack is expected to be spin-heavy, a traditional strength for Sri Lanka in Galle. The likes of Prabath Jayasuriya and the recalled Akila Dananjaya could play crucial roles in exploiting the spin-friendly conditions. For Bangladesh, the onus will be on their senior players to lead from the front. Captain Najmul Hossain Shanto will be expected to anchor the batting, with support from the experienced duo of Mushfiqur Rahim and Mominul Haque. The all-round abilities of Mehidy Hasan Miraz will be vital for the team's balance, contributing with both bat and ball. In the bowling department, the spin trio of Taijul Islam, Mehidy Hasan Miraz, and Nayeem Hasan will be tasked with the significant challenge of outbowling their Sri Lankan counterparts on a potentially turning track. The Galle International Stadium is renowned for its picturesque setting and its spin-friendly pitches. The surface typically offers significant assistance to the spinners, and this Test is expected to be no different. Batters will need to apply themselves and play with patience to score runs, while the spinners from both sides will be licking their lips at the prospect of a responsive wicket. The weather in Galle in June is generally warm and humid, with the possibility of intermittent showers that could play a role in the proceedings.