Bangladesh avoided embarrassment ahead of the first Test against Sri Lanka by batting through the final day to secure a draw at the Nondescripts Cricket Club Ground.

Aminul Islam top scored with 66 and there were useful contributions from youngster Hannan Sarkar and acting skipper Habibul Bashar as they finished on 243 for nine in their second innings.

The Tigers began the day on 31 for no wicket, still 116 runs in arrears and soon lost Al-Shariar Rokon for six.

Sarkar followed when he was caught behind off left-armer Thilan Thushara for 43 and after reaching 118 for two, they then lost four wickets for 15 runs.

Left-arm spinner Nisitha Rupasinghe did the main damage, taking three of the wickets including that of Bashar, who was lbw for 42.

Rupasinghe bowled 29 overs for magnificent figures of three for 34 but could not dislodge Islam, who batted responsibly in an attempt to stem the tide.

Bangladesh cleared the first innings deficit but defeat still looked certain at 178 for eight until Islam found a welcome ally in Manjural Islam, who kept him company for over two hours in a stand of 48.

It came to an end when Islam was run out after hitting eight fours, but Islam was unbeaten on nine at the close, having faced 85 deliveries, with last man Talha Jubair 12 not out.