Galle Test: Rain-marred Test ends in draw despite twin tons from Shanto

The first Test between Bangladesh and Sri Lanka ended in a draw, as persistent rain and a flat pitch left no side with a realistic chance of forcing a result on the fifth day at the Galle International Stadium.

Bangladesh declared their second innings at 285 for 6, setting Sri Lanka a target of 296 in a minimum of 39 overs.

But with significant time lost to rain throughout the day and wet conditions delaying the restart after lunch, only 32 overs were bowled in Sri Lanka's second innings. The hosts reached 72 for 4 before both captains agreed to call it off.

Najmul Hossain Shanto was the standout performer for Bangladesh, scoring centuries in both innings-148 in the first and an unbeaten 125 in the second-marking a rare achievement in Test cricket.

Mushfiqur Rahim also starred with the bat, scoring 163 in the first innings and 49 in the second.

Earlier in the match, Bangladesh posted 495 in their first innings, led by a 222-run partnership between Shanto and Mushfiqur.

Sri Lanka replied with 485, thanks largely to Pathum Nissanka's superb 187 and Kamindu Mendis' 87. For Bangladesh, off-spinner Nayeem Hasan claimed his first five-wicket haul in away conditions, finishing with figures of 5 for 121.

On the final day, rain interrupted play just as Bangladesh were considering a declaration. Shanto and Mushfiqur had added 100 runs for the fourth wicket before the latter was dismissed. Shanto reached his second century of the match shortly after the break in play, and Bangladesh declared soon after.

Sri Lanka's chase never gathered momentum. Taijul Islam struck three times, removing Lahiru Udara, Dinesh Chandimal, and Angelo Mathews-who was playing his final Test. Nayeem Hasan chipped in with the wicket of Nissanka.

Despite efforts from both teams, the combination of a flat surface and rain delays left little room for drama.

Bangladesh will take confidence from individual performances, especially from Shanto, while Sri Lanka will reflect on their bowling options going into the second Test.