In Test cricket, skill and mindset must be maintained: Dananjaya

Sri Lanka has announced a favorable start in Tests against Bangladesh. Sri Lankan bowlers, especially the pacers, have shown their prowess separately in this match. Alongside, the batsmen have also delivered promising performances. Captain Dananjaya de Silva and Kamindu Mendis have both contributed with centuries in both innings. Speaking at the press conference at the end of the match, Dananjaya stated that expertise and mindset in red-ball cricket are crucial.

All wickets for Bangladesh in both innings have fallen to Sri Lankan pacers. Therefore, the credit for dismissing Bangladesh twice in the match goes entirely to the pacers. Sri Lanka had three pacers in their lineup: Kasun Rajitha, Vishwa Fernando, and Lahiru Kumara. They have shouldered the responsibility of restricting Bangladesh to low totals in both innings.

Dananjaya remarked, "It seemed that the wickets were conducive to pace bowling. Hence, we played three pacers. At the end of the day, it has paid off for us. The pacers' pace has decreased as the day progressed. However, I am quite pleased with how our pacers have bowled."

The captain is happy with the pacers' performance. It's not common to see teams playing three pacers in subcontinental conditions. Usually, pitches here favor spin bowling. However, Sylhet had a promising wicket for both teams, as indicated by their captains. The Sri Lankan captain said, "We also play with three pacers in our country. Any new ball has the opportunity to swing, reverse swing, and take wickets. The opportunity to take wickets lies with the captain, not so much with spinners. Hence, I am happy with the performance of our pacers."

The mental state of the Bangladesh team in Tests is still not up to the mark, as discussed. Even the team members acknowledge this fact. Bangladesh has often demonstrated their failure in maintaining patience and shot selection in Tests. At least, Sri Lankan captain Dananjaya believes, "Yes, definitely. In Test cricket, it's essential to maintain skill and mindset. Through practice and training, we have achieved results on the field."