Colombo Test: Sri Lanka Command But Bangladesh Spinners Fight Back on Day 3

The second day of the Colombo Test was dominated entirely by Sri Lanka. But on Day 3, Bangladesh’s bowlers—led by Taijul Islam and Nayeem Hasan—fought back strongly with the ball.

Pathum Nissanka extended his innings to a superb 158, while Kusal Mendis contributed 84 to push Sri Lanka’s first-innings lead to 211 runs.

Bangladesh struck early on the third morning, claiming four wickets in the first session and four more after lunch. Taijul Islam was the star of the day, securing yet another five-wicket haul—his 17th in Test cricket.

On a day when Taijul shone brightest, fellow spinner Nayeem Hasan picked up three wickets. Among the pacers, only Nahid Rana managed a breakthrough, while returning seamer Ebadot Hossain remained wicketless in his comeback match.

Sri Lanka were eventually bowled out for 458 in 116.5 overs in their first innings. They added 168 runs today across two sessions while losing their final eight wickets.

Taijul Islam finished with impressive figures of 5 for 131, marking the 17th time he has taken five wickets in a Test innings.