Galle: On Day 3 of the first Test between Sri Lanka and Bangladesh, Sri Lanka made significant progress in their innings. At stumps, they had scored 368/4, trailing Bangladesh's mammoth first-innings total of 495 by 127 runs. Pathum Nissanka was the standout performer for Sri Lanka, scoring an impressive 187 runs off 256 balls, including 23 boundaries and 1 six. His innings featured crucial partnerships, including a 157-run stand with Dinesh Chandimal and an 89-run partnership with Angelo Mathews.

Nissanka's century was his third in Test cricket and his first on home soil, showcasing his skill and composure. Dinesh Chandimal also contributed significantly, scoring 54 runs before falling to Nayeem Hasan's bowling. Angelo Mathews added 39 runs to Sri Lanka's total before being dismissed by Mominul Haque. At the close of play, Kamindu Mendis (37*) and captain Dhananjaya de Silva (17*) were unbeaten at the crease, looking steady and poised to further reduce the deficit on Day 4.

Sri Lanka's openers, Pathum Nissanka and Lahiru Udara, got off to a solid start, adding 47 runs for the first wicket. Bangladesh's bowlers, including Taijul Islam and Nayeem Hasan, picked up crucial wickets, but the Sri Lankan batsmen showed resilience and determination. With a significant deficit still to overcome, Sri Lanka will look to build on their current position and push for a strong comeback on Day 4.