Sri Lanka and Bangladesh are set to cross each other’s paths once again as they meet in the second and final Test match, commencing from Saturday at Zahur Ahmed Chowdhury Stadium. 

With Sri Lanka securing a dominant victory in the first match, leading the series 1-0, the stakes will be high for the upcoming encounter. However, the return of Bangladesh's star all-rounder, Shakib Al Hasan, adds an intriguing dimension to the upcoming battle.

In the first encounter, Sri Lanka showcased their supremacy, clinching a convincing 328-run win. Sri Lankan bowlers displayed remarkable skill and precision, toppling Bangladesh’s batting lineup with ease. The comprehensive victory provided Sri Lanka with momentum and confidence heading into the second Test. 

Additionally, their batters Dhananjaya de Silva and Kamindu Mendis delivered with strong performances, racking up their centuries in both innings, and helping the side come out of pressure after they saw their top order lineup being perished by Bangladesh bowlers. In their first innings, both batters stood up to the challenge, getting (102) each.

In the second innings, both batters exhibited great acumen and tempo, bringing up their second centuries of the game. Sri Lanka will be keen to maintain their momentum and seal the series with another commanding performance. Meanwhile, in a big setback to Sri Lanka, bowler Kasun Rajitha, who took eight wickets (both innings combined) in the first game,  has been ruled out of the second Test due to an injury. 

Meanwhile, Bangladesh will be eager to bounce back and level the series. The return of Shakib Al Hasan will inject extra layer of depth in their batting and bowling order. Shakib's all-round abilities, with both bat and ball, make him a valuable asset for Bangladesh in all formats of the game. His presence not only strengthens the team but also boosts morale and provides leadership on the field.

Bangladesh Probable XI: Mahmudul Hasan Joy, Zakir Hasan, Najmul Hossain Shanto (c), Mominul Haque, Litton Das (wk), Shakib Al Hasan, Mehidy Hasan Miraz, Taijul Islam, Shoriful Islam, Khaled Ahmed, Nahid Rana

Sri Lanka Probable XI: Dimuth Karunaratne, Nishan Madushka, Kusal Mendis (wk), Angelo Mathews, Dinesh Chandimal, Dhananjaya de Silva (c), Kamindu Mendis, Prabath Jayasuriya, Vishwa Fernando, Asitha Fernando, Lahiru Kumara