Kusal Mendis made things easier for Bangladesh with an untimely run out. Just when he looked set for a century, the Sri Lankan batter fell victim to a poor judgment while attempting a quick second run.
He nudged a short delivery from Taijul Islam toward cover and went for two, but couldn’t make it back in time. Ebadot Hossain’s throw was cleanly collected by Litton Das, who whipped off the bails to catch Kusal short.
Kusal walked off after a well-made 84 off 87 balls, laced with 8 fours and 2 sixes.
Just three balls later, Asitha Fernando perished trying to play a big shot — caught by Shadman Islam at mid-on. With that, Sri Lanka’s innings folded for 458 runs.
They now hold a lead of 211. Which means, to force Sri Lanka to bat again, Bangladesh will need to score at least 211 in their second innings.
Taijul Islam completed his five-wicket haul by removing Asitha. This marks his fifth five-wicket haul away from home and 17th overall in Test cricket.
Brief Score:
Bangladesh 1st Innings: 247
Sri Lanka 1st Innings: (290/2 overnight) 458 in 116.5 overs
(Nissanka 158, Kusal 84, Kamindu 33; Taijul 5/131, Nayeem 3/87, Nahid 1/94)
