Sri Lanka head coach Chris Silverwood began his tenure with a 1-0 series victory against Bangladesh after the islanders won the final Test by 10 wickets on Friday.

Sri Lanka had to dig deep to secure a draw in the series opener in Chattogram but Asitha Fernando, who claimed a match haul of 10 wickets, led the visitors’ impressive bowling performance to secure their comprehensive victory in Mirpur.

Replying to Bangladesh’s first innings total of 365, Sri Lanka took command by amassing 506.

Their bowlers further tightened their grip on the match on Thursday when they reduced Bangladesh to 23/4. Defiant half-centuries from Litton Das (52) and Shakib-al Hasan (58) prevented an innings defeat but Bangladesh were eventually bundled out for 169 with Fernando leading their rout with figures of 6/51, which also earned him the Man of the Match award.

Needing 29 for victory, Sri Lanka romped home in three overs with Oshada Fernando blasting 21 not out off nine balls for their first victory under former England coach Silverwood.

“I would also like to dedicate this win to the Sri Lankans back home who are having a tough time,” Sri Lanka captain Dimuth Karunaratne said, referring to the fallout of the nation’s economic crisis.

Brief scores

Bangladesh 365 & 169 (Litton Das 52, Shakib-al Hasan 58; Asitha Fernando 6/51). Sri Lanka 506 & 29/0. Lanka won by 10 wickets.