Bangladesh declare 2nd innings, set Sri Lanka 296-run target

Bangladesh have finally declared their second innings, setting Sri Lanka a target of 296 runs on Day 5 of the first Test at the Galle International Cricket Stadium in Galle on Saturday.

The visitors declared after reaching 285 for the loss of 6 wickets while Sri Lanka need 296 runs to win.

It was a strong batting effort from the Tigers, with skipper Najmul Hossain Shanto once again leading from the front with a superb century. 

Shadman Islam provided solid support with a composed half-century, while Mushfiqur Rahim chipped in with a valuable knock, though he fell just short of a fifty. 

It was a well-paced innings overall, putting Bangladesh in a position to push for a result.

Sri Lanka will be disappointed with their bowling performance, having failed to make early inroads and letting Bangladesh take firm control of the game. 

The bowlers struggled to build pressure, but Tharindu Rathnayake stood out with three wickets, making good use of the conditions after the rain break. 

With a challenging target on the board, the onus is now on the Sri Lankan batters to dig in and play out the final phase carefully, especially with the spin threat looming large, if they are to secure a draw.