Sri Lanka secured a dominant innings and 78-run victory over Bangladesh in the second Test, wrapping up the match in just 28 minutes on the fourth morning. With this win, Sri Lanka clinched the two-match Test series 1-0 and earned crucial points in the ICC World Test Championship (2025–27).
Bangladesh, resuming at 117 for 6, were bowled out for just 133 in their second innings, following a first innings total of 247. In reply, Sri Lanka had posted a formidable 458, thanks to standout contributions from Pathum Nissanka (158), Dinesh Chandimal (93), and Kusal Mendis (84).
Jayasuriya Spins Web Around Bangladesh
It was Prabath Jayasuriya who delivered the killer blows on the final morning, taking 5 for 56 – his 12th five-wicket haul in Test cricket. The left-arm spinner dismantled the Bangladesh lower order, with key support from wicketkeeper Kusal Mendis, who returned to the field after nursing a shoulder injury.
Jayasuriya struck with just his third ball of the morning, dismissing Litton Das, and followed up by removing Nayeem Hasan, who was stumped after being deceived in flight. He completed his five-for by catching a return offering from Taijul Islam, while Tharindu Ratnayake cleaned up the innings by trapping Ebadot Hossain lbw.
Bangladesh Lose Grip Early
In total, nine wickets fell to spin in the innings, with Dhananjaya de Silva and Ratnayake sharing the remaining scalps. Despite a bright spell from Taijul Islam (5 for 131) in Sri Lanka’s innings, Bangladesh’s poor first innings and wayward bowling allowed the hosts to seize control early.
Nissanka Stars with the Bat
While the bowlers finished the job, the star of the match was Pathum Nissanka, who was named both Player of the Match for his classy 158 and Player of the Series, having also scored 187 in the first Test in Galle. His consistency at the top provided Sri Lanka with the solid foundation they needed to dominate both matches.
