Sri Lanka on course for Test-series sweep over Bangladesh despite batting collapse

Sri Lanka strengthens lead against Bangladesh in second Test despite batting collapse, aiming for series sweep.

Sri Lanka bolstered its chance to sweep the two-Test series against Bangladesh despite suffering a batting collapse on Day 3 of the final Test on April 1.

After gaining a huge lead in the first innings, Sri Lanka reached 102 for six at the stumps to extend its overall advantage to 455 runs.

The touring team bowled out Bangladesh earlier for a paltry total of 178 but chose not to enforce the follow-on.

Fast bowler Asitha Fernando claimed four for 34 as Bangladesh was dismissed for fewer than 200 for the third time in a row.

His fellow opener Vishwa Fernando picked up two for 38, including the wicket of Zakir Hasan, who top-scored with 54 after Bangladesh had resumed on 55 for one.

It was a big blow for the home side when skipper Najmul Hossain Shanto, on 1, clipped a ball straight to short mid-wicket off left-arm spinner Prabath Jayasuriya (2-65).

Vishwa then dismissed nightwatchman Taijul Islam for 22.