In a display of positive intent and determined batting, Pakistan made an impressive recovery from a precarious position of 101 for five to reach 221 for five before bad light and light showers brought an early close to the second day’s play in the first Test against Sri Lanka in Galle.
Saud Shakeel and Salman Ali Agha led the charge with a calculated and well-planned counterattack, bringing Pakistan closer to Sri Lanka’s first innings total of 312. The duo formed an unbeaten sixth-wicket partnership of 120 runs off just 148 balls, forcing the Sri Lankans to adopt a defensive approach.
Saud Shakeel, playing his first Test outside Pakistan, showcased his batting prowess with a masterful innings of 69. He continued his impressive form, following a string of noteworthy performances against England and New Zealand. Salman Ali Agha, who silenced his critics once again, remained unbeaten on a commendable 61. Their partnership punished all Sri Lankan bowlers, showcasing excellent stroke-selection and finding the gaps consistently.
Left-arm spinner Prabath Jayasuriya, who troubled Pakistan last year, was the most successful bowler for Sri Lanka, picking up three wickets but conceding 83 runs at an economy rate of over five runs per over. Off-spinner Ramesh Mendis claimed an important wicket, dismissing Shan Masood for 39, but he finished the day with an economy rate of 4.84. Fast bowler Vishwa Fernando remained wicketless in his five overs, conceding 34 runs.
Saud Shakeel faced 88 balls, striking six boundaries, while Salman Ali Agha hit six fours and a six in his 84-ball knock.
Pakistan endured a shaky start as Imam Ul Haq and Abdullah Shafique departed early. However, a determined Shan Masood provided stability with a quickfire 39 off just 30 balls. Pakistan suffered two more setbacks with the dismissals of Babar Azam and Sarfaraz Ahmed, but the partnership between Saud Shakeel and Salman Ali Agha revived their innings and kept them in the game.
Earlier in the day, Sri Lanka’s tail-enders wagged, adding 70 runs to their overnight score of 242 for six, as they were eventually bowled out for 312 in 95.2 overs. Dhananjaya de Silva, who started the day at 94, went on to score a century, eventually being dismissed for 122. Fast bowler Naseem Shah impressed with three wickets, while Abrar Ahmed claimed three as well.
With Pakistan still trailing by 91 runs, the game is finely poised heading into the third day of the Test match. Pakistan’s resilient partnership has given them a fighting chance to surpass Sri Lanka’s total and take control of the game. Cricket enthusiasts eagerly await the continuation of this intriguing battle in Galle.
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