Kumar Sangakkara’s 34th century steered Sri Lanka to a commanding 314-5 against Bangladesh at stumps on the first day of the second Test at Zahur Ahmed Chowdhury Stadium on Tuesday.
Sangakkara remained unbeaten on 160, his sixth century against the host, the most by any batsman against Bangladesh.
On a tough pitch, Sangakkara ensured Sri Lanka dominated most of the day until Bangladesh fought back with three wickets in the last session.
Jayawardene appeared to be heading towards his 34th century until he was trapped lbw by Mahmudullah, who spun the ball viciously.
With Jayawardene’s dismissal, Bangladesh earned a ray of hope to bounce back in the match, but it was quickly evaporated by Sangakkara, who went on to his first century since March, off 146 balls, including a dozen boundaries and two sixes.
Shakib Al Hasan was the most successful bowler with 2-70, while Al-Amin Hossain, Sohag Gazi, and Mahmudullah picked up one wicket apiece.
Shakib gave Bangladesh slight relief in the late afternoon when he claimed Dinesh Chandimal and skipper Angelo Mathews in quick succession. While Chandimal, who scored 27, was done by the low bounce and impatience, Mathews also played a rash shot with just two overs to go for the day.
In the first session, Dimuth Karunaratne scored a lively 31 but was out to a loose shot, cutting a short and wide delivery from Hossain straight to point where Mahmudullah took the catch.
Kithuruwan Vithanage, yet to open his account, will resume the second day with Sangakkara.
