Galle, June 20 (V7N) — Bangladesh secured a slender 10-run lead in the first innings of the ongoing Test against Sri Lanka at the Galle International Stadium. In reply to Bangladesh’s formidable total of 495, Sri Lanka were bowled out for 485 on the fourth day of the Test on Friday.

Sri Lanka began the post-lunch session with hope but quickly lost their remaining four wickets for just 20 runs. Hasan Mahmud struck first, clean bowling Milan Ratnayake for 39 with an inside edge while attempting a cover drive to a delivery well outside off-stump.

The biggest breakthrough for Bangladesh came when Naeem Hasan dismissed Kamindu Mendis, who had been a thorn in Bangladesh’s side throughout the innings. Looking well set for a century, Kamindu edged a delivery off Naeem into the gloves of Liton Das, departing for a valuable 87, which included 8 boundaries and 1 six.

Naeem continued his fine form, dismissing debutant Tharindu Ratnayake for a duck, trapping him in front as he misjudged a delivery angling in from outside off-stump.

Sri Lanka’s innings finally came to an end when Asitha Fernando, attempting a risky reverse sweep off Naeem, was bowled for 4. Prabath Jayasuriya remained unbeaten on 11 at the other end.

For Bangladesh, Naeem Hasan starred with figures of 4 wickets, while Hasan Mahmud claimed 3 scalps. Taijul Islam and part-timer Mominul Haque chipped in with one wicket apiece.

With a slim first-innings lead, Bangladesh will now look to build a strong second innings total to push for victory on the final day.

END/MSS/AJ