By Mehidy Hasan expressed concern over the team’s batting approach. “We’re playing balls we could easily leave, leading to our dismissals,” he said. “Players need to individually improve their game in Test cricket. Each player knows their thoughts during their innings. Despite the challenges of batting later in the day, we must face them as professionals. It’s disappointing to see how we got out. We must play better,” Mehidy insisted.
Bangladesh’s batsmen struggled again in their second innings, unable to withstand Sri Lanka’s pace attack. Vishwa Fernando, Lahiru Kumara, and Kasun Rajitha, who had taken all ten wickets in the first innings, continued their dominance. Fernando claimed three wickets, while Kumara and Rajitha each took one, leaving Bangladesh at 47-5, chasing 511.
He also pointed out the inadequate preparation for the Test format. “Our transition from T20s and ODIs to Test cricket, with just a two-day break, might explain our performance,” Mehidy suggested.
Mehidy Laments Batters Poor Execution
Thilina Kandamby, Sri Lanka’s batting coach, praised the fast bowlers. “We had modest plans but didn’t expect a lead of nearly 500 runs. We aimed for around 300, feeling that would position us well for a win. Our seamers deserve a lot of credit for taking all 15 wickets,” he noted.
Centuries from Dhananjaya de Silva and Kamindu Mendis were crucial for Sri Lanka. In the second innings, they contributed significantly to Sri Lanka’s commanding total, both scoring centuries and sharing a 173-run partnership for the sixth wicket. This effort helped Sri Lanka amass 418, extending the lead to 510.
Kandamby appreciated the timely centuries. “Dhananjaya and Kamindu weren’t chasing records. They played vital innings when we needed them most. Having watched a lot of cricket, these were among the best centuries I’ve seen,” he concluded.
