Going through a goal of 131 runs for victory, Pakistan discovered themselves in hassle at 79-Four after skipper Babar Azam’s dismissal to the left-arm spinner Prabath Jayasuriya, who proved formidable with figures of 4-56 within the second innings.
Nonetheless, Imam-ul-Haq fashioned an important partnership with Saud Shakeel to stabilize the innings. Regardless of the percentages stacked towards them, Sri Lanka refused to again down, even with a restricted complete to defend. Saud Shakeel, who had already impressed with a career-best 208 not out within the first innings, contributed 30 runs earlier than departing, and Sarfaraz Ahmed (one) could not maintain on for lengthy both.
But, Imam-ul-Haq remained steadfast and composed, reaching an unbeaten half-century (50 not out). With Agha Salman becoming a member of him on the crease, they sealed Pakistan’s victory in a classy method. Agha Salman wasted no time and smashed the primary ball he confronted from Jayasuriya over the mid-off boundary.
Saud Shakeel’s excellent efficiency within the first innings, the place he scored a maiden Check double century, proved instrumental in giving Pakistan an important first-innings lead of 149 runs, incomes him the well-deserved “Participant of the Match” title.
“The best way Saud and Agha performed, it completely modified the sport,” Babar mentioned referring to their 177-run partnership, which helped Pakistan publish 461 within the first innings.
“It is not simple to bat in Galle, however the best way Saud’s taking part in is excellent.”
Sri Lanka’s high order couldn’t vindicate their determination to bat first and so they reached 312 of their first innings courtesy Dhananjaya de Silva’s gallant 122.
“We wanted to see off that opening spell however we misplaced just a few wickets,” dwelling captain Dimuth Karunaratne mentioned.
“Total, the bowlers did properly, however we dropped just a few catches and that value us. We have now to evaluate what went incorrect and are available again once more.”
The groups transfer to Colombo for the second and closing Check starting on Monday.
(With inputs from Reuters)
