Galle, Sri Lanka – June 17, 2025:
The heat is on in Galle as Bangladesh and Sri Lanka clash in the opening Test of the 2025–27 ICC World Test Championship, and it’s not just the temperature that’s soaring — emotions are too. This match isn’t just about runs and wickets — it’s about legacy, leadership, and fresh beginnings.
While Bangladesh looks to make a strong overseas statement, Sri Lanka is playing for pride — and for Angelo Mathews, who is walking out for his final Test appearance in front of a home crowd that adores him.
🔥 Early Action Recap
After winning the toss, Bangladesh opted to bat first on a dry Galle pitch, perfect for batting on Day 1. The opening pair, Najmul Hossain Shanto and Mushfiqur Rahim, showed solid temperament and strokeplay, frustrating Sri Lanka’s bowlers with a patient but assertive stand.
Sri Lanka’s spin duo — Prabath Jayasuriya and Tharindu Ratnayake — struggled to find breakthroughs in the opening session, with Bangladesh piling on runs and confidence.
🧢 Playing XI – Clash of Strategy & Experience
🇧🇩 Bangladesh XI:
Shadman Islam, Anamul Haque, Mominul Haque, Najmul Hossain Shanto (captain), Mushfiqur Rahim, Litton Das (wk), Jaker Ali, Taijul Islam, Hasan Mahmud, Nahid Rana, Nayeem Hasan
🇱🇰 Sri Lanka XI:
Pathum Nissanka, Lahiru Udara, Dinesh Chandimal, Angelo Mathews, Kamindu Mendis, Dhananjaya de Silva (captain), Kusal Mendis (wk), Milan Rathnayake, Tharindu Ratnayake, Prabath Jayasuriya, Asitha Fernando
🏟️ Match Significance: More Than Just Cricket
- For Bangladesh: A chance to solidify its growing reputation as a competitive Test side on foreign soil.
- For Sri Lanka: A comeback from a long Test break and a tribute to their veteran warhorse, Mathews, whose swansong has stirred the hearts of fans.
- For Fans: The beginning of a brand-new World Test Championship cycle — where every session matters.
😢 Mathews’ Farewell – End of an Era
As Mathews took the field, the crowd rose in applause. After nearly two decades in international cricket, the former captain and all-rounder is preparing for his curtain call in the whites. No matter the match result, this game will be remembered for his legacy.
📡 What’s Happening Live?
- Bangladesh’s top order has held steady through the opening spells.
- Sri Lankan bowlers are desperately searching for a way to dismantle the partnerships.
- The pitch is starting to take slow turn, which might come into play as the match progresses.
🏏 What’s Next?
With the batters well-set and the spinners just beginning to find rhythm, Day 2 could bring massive momentum swings. Expect tight sessions, slow burn drama, and possibly a Mathews magic moment with the ball or bat.