Sri Lanka Dominates Bangladesh in Colombo Test, Clinches Series with Innings Win

Prabath Jayasuriya claimed his 12th five-wicket haul in Test cricket (AFP Photo)

Prabath Jayasuriya claimed his 12th five-wicket haul in Test cricket.

Bangladesh, starting day four at a precarious 115 for six and trailing by 97 runs, needed a herculean effort to stay in the game. However, Sri Lanka swiftly extinguished any hopes of a comeback.

Jayasuriya, who was wicketless in the first innings, made an immediate impact, dismissing Litton Das for 14 with the fifth ball of the morning. Das edged the ball behind to wicketkeeper Kusal Mendis, triggering a rapid collapse of the Bangladesh batting lineup. The visitors surrendered meekly, handing Sri Lanka a comprehensive victory before the lunch break.

This decisive win not only secured the series but also bolstered Sri Lanka's position in the World Test Championship standings, adding valuable points to their campaign.

Attention now turns to the limited-overs segment of the tour, featuring three ODIs and three T20Is.

The Colombo victory stood in stark contrast to the drawn first Test in Galle, where Bangladesh captain Najmul Hossain Shanto shone with centuries in both innings. Unfortunately for the visitors, they couldn't replicate that performance in the second match, with no batter managing a half-century in either innings.

After winning the toss and electing to bat on a favorable surface, Bangladesh failed to capitalize, getting bowled out for 247 in their first innings. Sri Lanka responded strongly with a commanding total of 458, establishing a significant 211-run lead.

Opener Pathum Nissanka was the cornerstone of Sri Lanka's innings, scoring a fluent 158 – his second century of the series. Dinesh Chandimal provided valuable support with a composed 93. Their impressive 194-run partnership for the second wicket laid the foundation for Sri Lanka's dominance.

Although Bangladesh briefly fought back, claiming three quick wickets after taking the second new ball, Kusal Mendis steadied the ship with a counterattacking 84, ensuring the home side remained firmly in control.

Overall, it was a clinical performance from Sri Lanka, who outperformed Bangladesh in all aspects of the game, securing a resounding series victory on home turf.