In a display of dominance, Sri Lanka asserted control over Bangladesh in the second Test, amassing a commanding total of 531 runs in their first innings in Chittagong. This remarkable achievement set a new record for the highest score in Test cricket without any batsman reaching the century mark.
Despite Sri Lanka’s impressive performance, Kamindu Mendis narrowly missed out on a rare feat, falling just eight runs short of securing his third consecutive Test century. Mendis, who showcased outstanding form with scores of 102 and 164 in the first Test, remained unbeaten on 92 as Sri Lanka’s innings came to a close.
Bangladesh faced an uphill battle as they closed their first innings at 55-1, with opener Zakir Hasan standing strong at 28 alongside nightwatchman Taijul Islam at 0. Lahiru Kumara managed to dismiss Mahmudul Hasan Joy for 21, leaving Bangladesh with a daunting task to overcome Sri Lanka’s imposing total.
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Throughout Sri Lanka’s innings, notable contributions came from Dhananjaya de Silva (70), Dinesh Chandimal (59), Kusal Mendis (93), Dimuth Karunaratne (86), and Nishan Madhushka (57), each scoring a fifty. Shakib Al Hasan proved to be the most effective bowler for Bangladesh, finishing with figures of 3-110.
Despite Bangladesh’s efforts to contain Sri Lanka’s batting lineup, the visitors maintained control for nearly two days after opting to bat first. De Silva’s dismissal in the post-lunch session dashed hopes of a potential 300-run individual score, while Chandimal’s 59-run contribution ended with an edge behind the stumps off Shakib’s bowling.
The match also witnessed moments of drama, including a comical drop by three slip fielders off Prabath Jayasuriya’s bat on six, and Mendis’ contentious dismissal on 35, which was overturned upon review after being initially given out caught behind off Mehidy Hasan Miraz’s bowling. Sri Lanka’s dominant performance underscores their strong position in the Test match.
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