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Sri Lanka
Bangladesh
Sri Lanka and Bangladesh are set to clash in the opening Test of their two-match series at the iconic Galle International Stadium, with play beginning at 10:00 AM IST.
Historically, Sri Lanka has dominated this matchup, winning 20 of the 26 Tests played between the sides. Bangladesh, meanwhile, have managed just one solitary win over the islanders, and will be looking to rewrite history in familiar subcontinent conditions.
Their batting depth and spin threat make them likely to take a solid first-innings lead.
The betting tip is...
First Innings Lead β Sri Lanka
57 %
43 %
Sri LankaBangladeshSri Lanka head into the Test series against Bangladesh with a balanced squad led by Dhananjaya de Silva. The batting unit features experienced names like Angelo Mathews, Kusal Mendis, and Dinesh Chandimal, while Pathum Nissanka and Oshada Fernando are expected to provide solidity at the top.
Kamindu Mendis and Lahiru Udara add depth to the middle order, while young prospects like Sonal Dinusha and Pasindu Sooriyabandara will be looking to make an impression if given a chance.
In the spin department, Prabath Jayasuriya is likely to lead the attack on the spin-friendly Galle surface, supported by Akila Dananjaya and Tharindu Rathnayake. The pace attack includes Lahiru Kumara, Asitha Fernando, Vishwa Fernando, and Milan Rathnayake, offering a mix of pace and control. Pawan Rathnayake also adds a seam option.
With several all-round options in the lineup, Sri Lanka will aim to continue their strong record against Bangladesh in home conditions.
Sri Lanka has a fully fit squad and will be going with the strongest XI.
Predicted Lineup: Pathun Nisanka, Oshada Farnendo, Kusal Mendis, Angelo Mathews, Dinesh Chandimal (wk), Dhananjaya de Silva (c), Kamindu Mendis, Prabath Jayasuriya, Akila Dhananjaya, Asitha Fernando, Vishwa Fernando
Bangladesh will be led by Najmul Hossain Shanto as they prepare for the opening Test against Sri Lanka. The squad features a mix of youth and experience, with Mushfiqur Rahim and Mominul Haque providing stability in the middle order.
Litton Das and Anamul Haque add strength to the batting, while Shadman Islam returns as an option at the top. Jaker Ali Anik and Mahidul Islam Bhuiyan are part of the setup and could be handed opportunities depending on the team combination.
The spin attack will rely heavily on Mehidy Hasan Miraz and Taijul Islam, with Nayeem Hasan and Hasan Murad available as additional options on a turning Galle pitch. The pace attack includes Ebadot Hossain, Hasan Mahmud, Nahid Rana, and Syed Khaled Ahmed, giving Bangladesh decent variety with the ball. With just one Test win over Sri Lanka in their history, the visitors will be hoping for a much-improved showing this time.
Bangladesh will be going with the strongest XI as well.
Predicted Lineup: Najmul Hossain Shanto (c), Shadman Islam, Mominul Haque, Mushfiqur Rahim, Litton Das (wk), Jaker Ali, Mehidy Hasan Miraz, Taijul Islam, Nayeem Hasan, Hasan Mahmud, Nahid Rana
Sri Lanka go into the first Test as clear favourites, especially with the match being played in Galle, where spin plays a major role.
Their experienced lineup, led by Dhananjaya de Silva and backed by proven spinners like Prabath Jayasuriya, gives them a strong edge.
Bangladeshβs recent Test form and struggles in Sri Lankan conditions make it tough to back them for an upset. Expect the hosts to control the game and take a 1-0 lead in the series.
