lahiru Thirimanne and Dinesh Chandimal cracked maiden Test centuries to put Sri lanka in command on the second day of the opening Test against Bangladesh in Galle on Saturday.
left-handed Thirimanne hit a solid 155 not out and Chandimal an unbeaten 116 as the hosts declared their first innings closed at 570-4 after adding 209 to their overnight total of 361-3 for the loss of just one wicket.
Bangladesh were 135-2 in their first innings at stumps, with Mohammad Ashraful unbeaten on 65 and debutant Mominul Haque 35 not out. Paceman Shaminda Eranga struck first when he had opener Jahurul Islam (20) caught behind and then unorthodox spinner Ajantha Mendis bowled debutant Anamul Haque (13) in his first over to put pressure on Bangladesh.
Ashraful then steadied the innings as he added 70 for the unfinished third-wicket stand with Mominul. He has so far hit seven fours in his 108-ball knock.
Brief Scores
Sl: 570 for 4 declared (Thirimanne 155 not out, Dinesh Chandimal 116 not out) lead Bangladesh: 135 for 2 (Ashraful 65 batting, Mominul 35 batting) by 435 runs at close of play on Day 2.