Test captain Najmul Hossain Shanto has shown patience and determination to hit his sixth test century during the first match in the Bangladesh tour of Sri Lanka 2025, starting on June 17 at Galle.

The 26-year-old held his ground, staying calm under pressure to reach his century in 202 deliveries.

Najmul Hossain Shanto’s century came off in the 74th innings when Sri Lanka spinner Prabath Jayasuriya bowled a delivery down the leg side. Shanto played a paddle sweep and picked up two runs to reach his hundred.

Along with him Mushfiqur Rahim also went on to score his century aiming to finish strong by the end of day 01. He reached century in 176 deliveries aiming to cross 300 run mark.

His maiden test century comes from the first game during Bangladesh’s tour of Sri Lanka in 2021, where he scored 163 runs in Pallekele which is his highest test score.

“I have some good memories in Kandy, but I want to take the opportunity in Galle,” Najmul Hossain Shanto said.

“Playing spin may be challenging, but there’s also a lot of runs in the first two or three days in Galle. We want to take that opportunity. There will be challenges for the batters as spinners take a lot of wickets in this venue. We have to bat well. We are enjoying each other’s company despite all the challenges.”

Batting first, Bangladesh openers Ananmul Haque got out for duck after facing 10 balls. Shadab Islam also struggled and was dismissed for 14 runs off 53 balls against Asitha Fernando.

Rahim went on to join Shanto after Mominulul haque went on to lose his wicket for 29 runs off 33 deliveries

This test series marks the beginning of the new WTC cycle (2025-27) and both sides will be eyeing for a win to make a fresh start.