Sri Lanka Clinches Series Victory Against Bangladesh

Colombo: Sri Lanka achieved a decisive victory over Bangladesh on Saturday, winning by an innings and 78 runs on the fourth day of the second Test at R. Premadasa Stadium. This triumph, fueled by Prabath Jayasuriya’s exceptional bowling performance and Pathum Nissanka’s impressive century, secured the two-match series 1-0 for Sri Lanka.

The victory underscores Sri Lanka’s dominance and provides a boost to their position in the ICC World Test Championship standings. Sri Lanka needed only four wickets to conclude the match as they resumed the final day.

Jayasuriya’s Bowling Masterclass

Jayasuriya, the left-arm spinner, proved instrumental, capturing 5 wickets for 56 runs. This marks his 12th five-wicket haul in Test cricket, effectively sealing the match for his team. Jayasuriya initiated the breakthroughs early, dismissing Litton Das with a ball that took a sharp edge and was caught by Kusal Mendis. Mendis had returned after missing the previous day due to a shoulder issue.

Jayasuriya continued his impressive spell by removing Nayeem Hasan, who was stumped. He then completed his five-wicket haul by catching Taijul Islam off his own bowling after a leading edge. Tharindu Ratnayake concluded the innings by dismissing Ebadot Hossain LBW.

Jayasuriya’s showing was his best against Bangladesh, marking a return to form after a less fruitful performance in the previous Test.

Spin Dominance

Spin bowlers accounted for nine of the ten wickets in the second innings, with Ratnayake and Dhananjaya de Silva each taking two.

Nissanka’s Batting Prowess

The foundation for Sri Lanka’s triumph was built in their first innings, capitalizing on Bangladesh’s weak batting and bowling. Pathum Nissanka was named Player of the Match and Player of the Series for his batting contributions.

Nissanka scored 158 runs off 254 balls in the second Test, following his 187 in the series opener. Bangladesh scored 247 in their first innings, while Sri Lanka responded with 458, establishing a 211-run lead. Bangladesh then succumbed to 133 in their second innings.