Bangladesh spinner Taijul Islam said their bowlers need to bowl tight line, length and discipline to restrict Sri Lanka as early as possible on day four to have any chance of winning the first Test at Pallekelle International Cricket stadium in Kandy.
The Lankans were off to a steady start in reply to Bangladesh’s 541 in the first innings and finished the day on 229 losing just three wickets at close of day three.
Sri Lanka skipper Dimuth Karunaratne was leading the fightback for the Lankans as the left-hander was unbeaten on 85 off 211 deliveries.
“There is not much help in the wicket for pacers or spinners. We have to bowl very well and maintain discipline. Also we have to check runs. If we can bowl tightly and take some wickets early, then chance of winning may arise,” said left-arm spinner Taijul Islam during the post-match press conference Friday.
Bangladesh are playing with five specialist bowlers in the shape of pacers Abu Jayed Rahi, Ebadat Hossain and Taskin Ahmed and spin duo Taijul and Mehedi Hasan Miraz.
At last the much awaited away century came for Mominul Haque.
Posted by Sports Tribune on Thursday, 22 April 2021
Taijul admitted playing with five bowlers is an advantage for the Tigers, especially in this hot condition in Kandy and hopes it will help bowlers to bring positive results for the side.
“It’s helpful for all the bowlers actually as we are playing with five specialist bowlers in this game, particularly in this type of condition. The weather is really hot here. So bowlers get proper rest within spells and can prepare themselves in a better way when we play with an extra bowler,” said the cricketer from Natore.
Earlier on day three, Bangladesh posted 541 on the board losing seven wickets before declaring their innings.
Liton Das scored a half century, 50 off 67 balls, before getting out and Miraz (three) and Taijul (two) also got out early on day three.
Mushfiqur Rahim was unbeaten on 68 off 156 deliveries when Bangladesh brought a halt to their innings.