Pakistan Takes Commanding Lead in Second Test against Sri Lanka
In a dominant display of skill and determination, Pakistan seized control of the second Test match against Sri Lanka at Colombo’s Sinhalese Sports Club Ground. The visitors showcased their prowess, led by Abdullah Shafique and Naseem Shah, leaving Sri Lanka struggling to keep up.
The first day’s play ended with Pakistan comfortably positioned at 145/2 in 28.3 overs, trailing Sri Lanka by a mere 21 runs. Abdullah Shafique emerged as the star of the day, remaining unbeaten on an impressive 74. Captain Babar Azam provided support with 8 not out. Pakistan’s batters displayed great promise as they aimed to build a substantial lead over the hosts after limiting them to a modest 166 runs earlier in the day.
The start of Sri Lanka’s innings appeared hopeful as Asitha Fernando dismissed Imam-ul-Haq early on. However, Abdullah Shafique and Shan Masood dashed their aspirations with an exceptional partnership of 108 runs. Just after Shan completed his half-century, Fernando struck again, but Babar Azam stepped in to steady the ship.
Abdullah had a nerve-wracking moment towards the end of the day when he was initially given out by Prabath Jayasuriya’s LBW appeal. Fortunately, a wise review revealed that the ball would have missed the stumps, allowing Abdullah to continue his impressive innings.
Earlier in the day, Sri Lanka’s batting lineup grappled against Pakistan’s formidable bowling attack. Openers Nishan Madushka and Dimuth Karunaratne failed to provide the desired start, and a mix-up between them led to Madushka’s run-out, leaving the hosts in trouble at 36/4.
Naseem Shah wreaked havoc early on, but Dhananjaya and Chandimal managed to stabilize the innings with an 85-run partnership. However, Naseem returned to dismiss Chandimal, breaking their resistance. The rest of the Sri Lankan batters struggled to make a significant impact, while Abrar Ahmed shone in the latter part of the day with a fantastic four-wicket haul.
With Pakistan’s commanding position and the impressive performances of Abdullah Shafique and Naseem Shah, they are primed to extend their lead and secure victory in the second Test. Sri Lanka will need to regroup and find a way to counter Pakistan’s dominance if they hope to mount a comeback and turn the tide in their favor. The following days of the match promise to be intense and filled with exciting cricket as both teams battle for supremacy on the field.
