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Bangladesh tightened their grip on the Galle Test by the end of day four, reaching 177/3 in their second innings for a lead of 187 runs. With seven wickets in hand, defeat seems unlikely, raising the question: will captain Najmul Hossain Shanto go for the win?
Sadman Islam (76) and Shanto (56*) shone brightly on day four. Sadman notched his fifth Test fifty, while Shanto, unbeaten, looks set for a big innings on the final day. Mushfiqur Rahim remains not out on 22.
In their first innings, Bangladesh amassed 495, driven by Shanto’s 148 and Mushfiqur’s 163. Sri Lanka replied with 485, led by Pathum Nissanka’s 187, but Naim Hasan’s five-wicket haul gave Bangladesh a 10-run lead.
The second innings saw early setbacks with Enamul Haque (4) and Mominul Haque (14) falling cheaply. A 68-run stand between Sadman and Shanto steadied the innings. Despite Sadman’s late dismissal, Shanto and Mushfiqur held firm.
The final day’s morning session will be crucial. A lead above 250 with a quick declaration could pressure Sri Lanka, especially on a spin-friendly pitch where Taijul Islam and Naim Hasan could thrive. Chasing 250 in Galle’s fourth innings is daunting, making victory a real possibility. Will Bangladesh play it safe for a draw or chase glory? The answer awaits on day five.
AI/MR
