Rain brought an early lunch on the final day of the opening Test between Sri Lanka and Bangladesh on Saturday, dimming Bangladesh’s chances of securing a rare overseas win.
Only 80 minutes of play were possible in the morning before rain interrupted what had the makings of a thrilling finish. With heavy clouds overhead and covers firmly in place, the umpires opted to call lunch early as the weather showed no signs of clearing.
Bangladesh, which has managed just seven victories in 66 Tests away from home, ended Day 4 in a commanding position at 177-3 in their second innings, holding a 187-run lead.
They managed to push that total to 237-4 — extending their lead to 247 — before rain arrived. The only casualty of the morning session was veteran batter Mushfiqur Rahim, who was run out for 49, narrowly missing a well-deserved half-century. In the final act before the weather intervened, Mushfiqur attempted a quick single after nudging the ball to mid-on, but debutant Tharindu Rathnayake produced a sharp throw to run him out just short of the crease.
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At the other end, Bangladesh captain Najmul Hossain Shanto remained unbeaten on 89, anchoring the innings with composure and leadership to guide his team into a dominant position.
Despite still having six wickets in hand and a solid lead, Bangladesh’s main obstacle on the final day wasn't the Sri Lankan bowling attack — but the weather, which now threatens to end the match in a draw.