Sri Lanka’s pace trio of Vishwa Fernando, Lahiru Kumara, and Kasun Rajitha etched their names in history by capturing all 20 wickets in the first Test against Bangladesh in Sylhet. This feat, last achieved by Sri Lanka in 1986, was made possible by the green tinge of the pitch, which provided ample pace and bounce.
Captain Dhananjaya de Silva’s decision to field three pacers proved to be a masterstroke, as they exploited the conditions to the fullest. The visitors completed a comprehensive 328-run victory with a day and a half to spare, giving the pace trio much-needed rest ahead of the second Test in Chattogram.
De Silva praised his bowlers for their exceptional use of the new ball and their ability to maintain their shape despite the pitch slowing down. He emphasized the importance of pace bowlers in extracting wickets, especially when the conditions favor them.
The Test also marked a memorable milestone for De Silva himself, who became the first Sri Lankan captain to score twin hundreds in a Test. He and newcomer Kamindu Mendis formed crucial partnerships in both innings, showcasing their patience and skill.
De Silva expressed his satisfaction with Mendis’s performance, highlighting his determination and suitability for the No. 7 role. He also acknowledged the support he receives from experienced leaders in the team, which helps him navigate the challenges of captaincy.
Despite Sri Lanka’s impressive victory, De Silva remains focused on the present and is not preoccupied with the World Test Championship points table. He believes in taking one match at a time and addressing areas for improvement, such as the top-order batting, before the next Test.
