SL vs BAN: Shanto and Mushfiqur’s Record Partnership Dominates Sri Lanka on Day 1
In a stunning display of resilience and skill, Bangladesh captain Najmul Hossain Shanto and veteran batter Mushfiqur Rahim crafted a historic 247-run fourth-wicket partnership, placing their team in a commanding position at 292-3 on the opening day of the first Test against Sri Lanka at Galle International Stadium on Tuesday, June 17, 2025. This monumental stand not only shattered records but also shifted the momentum firmly in Bangladesh’s favor after an early stumble.
Opting to bat first on a pitch known for its spin-friendly nature, Bangladesh found themselves in dire straits at 45-3 early in the session. However, Shanto and Mushfiqur’s unwavering partnership turned the tide, setting a new benchmark for Bangladesh’s highest fourth-wicket stand against Sri Lanka in Test cricket. Shanto, leading from the front, remained unbeaten on 136, while Mushfiqur, in his 97th Test, marked a triumphant return to form with an unbeaten 105—his 12th Test century.
Mushfiqur, 38, had endured a lean patch of 13 innings without a half-century prior to this match. Surviving a dropped catch by Sri Lankan debutant Tharindu Rathnayake when on 25, he showcased his experience and grit to reach the three-figure mark. Reflecting on the day, Mushfiqur said, “We know Galle always spins, but we’ve been fortunate to bat under good conditions here. This wicket will deteriorate, no doubt. That’s why a big first-innings total is crucial to pressure the opposition.”
Shanto, meanwhile, celebrated his sixth Test century—his second against Sri Lanka—with a deft paddle sweep off spinner Prabath Jayasuriya. This milestone, his first since November 2023, underscored his growing stature as a dependable leader and batter. His composed innings included 14 boundaries and a six, perfectly complementing Mushfiqur’s steady accumulation.
Sri Lanka, who had started brightly, saw their early advantage slip away. Fast bowler Asitha Fernando struck first, removing opener Anamul Haque for a duck, while debutant off-spinner Rathnayake claimed two quick scalps to rattle the visitors. However, as the pitch eased out under the sun, the hosts struggled to contain the Shanto-Mushfiqur juggernaut. Rathnayake, reflecting on the day, noted, “There was moisture early on, and we created chances, but the wicket dried up and became good for batting. It’s not the usual Galle track; it’s harder, and I think it’ll favor batters even on day four. We need patience and discipline tomorrow with a fairly new ball.”
Adding an emotional layer to the day was Sri Lankan stalwart Angelo Mathews playing his 119th and final Test. The 38-year-old, retiring with over 8,000 Test runs and ranking third behind Kumar Sangakkara and Mahela Jayawardene in Sri Lanka’s all-time scoring list, expressed his pride before the match: “Playing over 100 Tests for my country was a dream come true. I’m extremely proud of this journey and grateful to everyone who was part of it.” Sri Lanka also introduced two debutants—Tharindu Rathnayake and opening batter Lahiru Udara—both earning caps after stellar domestic seasons.
This Test marks the start of a new World Test Championship cycle, with the second match of the series set for June 25 in Colombo. As Day 1 concluded, Bangladesh held the upper hand, with Shanto and Mushfiqur still at the crease, poised to build an even more daunting total. For Sri Lanka, the morning session on Day 2 offers a glimmer of hope with a relatively new ball, but they’ll need early breakthroughs to claw back into the contest.
In a clash of determination and skill, Bangladesh has set the tone for what promises to be an enthralling Test. Can Sri Lanka regroup, or will Shanto and Mushfiqur’s historic alliance pave the way for a dominant victory? Only time—and the turning Galle pitch—will tell.