The Sylhet pitch has proven to be a refreshing change for Bangladesh, where fast bowlers have traditionally struggled. The presence of live grass on the surface has provided a rare opportunity for pacers to excel, while also allowing batters to play their shots freely.
Sri Lanka’s fast bowlers capitalized on these conditions, claiming all ten Bangladesh wickets in the first innings of the first Test. This marked the first time Sri Lanka’s quicks had achieved this feat since Johannesburg 2021.
Vishwa Fernando, Lahiru Kumara, and Kasun Rajitha showcased their skills, consistently bowling on and outside the off stump. Fernando claimed four wickets, including the crucial dismissals of Zakir Hasan and Najmul Hossain Shanto. Rajitha removed Mominul Haque and Taijul Islam, while Kumara accounted for Mahmudul Hasan Joy and Shahadat Hossain.
Sri Lanka’s fast-bowling coach, Dharshana Gamage, praised his bowlers’ discipline and execution. “They bowled really well to get all ten wickets,” he said. “There was a bit of help from the wicket as well, but they stuck to their basics and bowled in the right areas.”
Gamage emphasized the importance of discipline and bowling partnerships. “Our basic plan was to bowl on top of off-stump all day,” he said. “We developed good bowling partnerships from both ends, and that’s what ultimately led to our success.”
Gamage also highlighted the efforts of Vishwa, who has been working hard to maintain his fitness and rhythm for Test cricket. “We’ve worked very hard to bring and keep him at this level,” Gamage said. “He works extremely hard to stay sharp and keep his rhythm.”
Kumara, who was playing his first Test in 12 months, also impressed with his endurance and accuracy. “He has had some injuries in the last few years, but we’ve worked hard on his workload,” Gamage said. “He is in good shape at the moment and showed that he could bowl consistently in the right areas.”
With Chris Silverwood at the helm, Sri Lanka’s fast bowlers have shown a renewed focus on discipline and consistency. While Asitha Fernando is absent, Kumara has staked his claim for a place in the first-choice pace attack alongside Vishwa and Rajitha. The trio will need to continue their impressive performances to help Sri Lanka secure victory in the ongoing Test.
