Does Bangladesh’s Draw in Galle Boost Confidence for Second Test?

Colombo, June 24 (NationPress) Bangladesh's head coach Phil Simmons conveyed optimism for the upcoming second Test against Sri Lanka, highlighting that the team's impressive performance in the initial match has significantly uplifted their spirits, a phenomenon that hasn't been prevalent in their recent Test endeavors.

Previously, Bangladesh managed to draw a two-match Test series in the West Indies in November 2024 after an initial loss and achieved a similar outcome at home against Zimbabwe in April 2025, showcasing their ability to rebound after an opening defeat.

"There's immense confidence stemming from our gameplay. We typically struggle to start strong in the first Test of a series, but this time, we immediately established our presence. That instills a great deal of belief as we prepare for the second Test," Simmons informed reporters in Colombo.

"The morale has remained high from the outset. The players dedicated themselves in Dhaka to ensure we could commence effectively here. The draw in Galle was a commendable outcome, and we've recuperated well over the past three days. Spirits are elevated.

"The pitch appears promising thus far. Although I haven't seen it today, yesterday's observations were encouraging. Tomorrow, we aim to replicate the intensity we showed in Galle. There are a few minor adjustments we want to make, and it's crucial that we either sustain or enhance the performance level we displayed in the first Test.

"The players are thriving. Performing well elevates the atmosphere, and we've enjoyed a reasonable interval between Tests. They are both mentally resilient and physically primed. We are ready for the challenge," he added.

Simmons noted that Bangladesh has yet to finalize whether they will opt for three spinners or three seamers in the second Test in Colombo. Mehidy Hasan Miraz is anticipated to rejoin the playing XI after missing the first Test due to illness. Should the team decide on utilizing only two spinners, Nayeem Hasan, who achieved a five-wicket haul in the opening Test, may be sidelined for the more seasoned Mehidy, who also contributes with the bat.

"That decision will be made later today, based on our assessment of the pitch. We've just arrived at the ground, so evaluating the conditions is our priority before determining team composition, whether we proceed with three seamers or three spinners," Simmons stated.

"That's the challenging aspect. Nayeem had an outstanding performance in Galle, making his exclusion difficult. However, everyone understands that selections hinge on conditions and what benefits the team most. We strive to ensure consensus among the team when making such decisions," he added.

Meanwhile, Sri Lanka's captain Dhananjaya de Silva anticipates a high-scoring match in Colombo and has urged his batters to take on greater accountability. He stressed that the team can only exert pressure on their rivals by setting a robust first-innings total.

"We constantly emphasize the importance of substantial first-innings runs. If we can establish a strong total, the pressure will shift to the opposition, and it becomes about securing 20 wickets to clinch the match," Dhananjaya remarked.

"It's expected to be a batting-friendly pitch. Typically, such wickets tend to turn in the final days. There may be some spin as the Test progresses."