Pakistan vs Sri Lanka 2023: Saud Shakeel Shines with Double Century in Rain-Affected Test
In a rain-affected Test match, Pakistan’s Saud Shakeel delivered an exceptional batting performance, scoring his maiden double century and putting his team in a commanding position against Sri Lanka. Shakeel’s brilliant innings helped Pakistan establish a lead of 149 runs on the third day of the rain-affected first match.
Playing in only his sixth Test, Shakeel showcased his batting prowess by scoring an impressive 208 not out. His innings included 27 boundaries, and he received a standing ovation when he reached his well-deserved double century. Shakeel’s unbeaten knock, combined with a crucial partnership of 94 runs for the ninth wicket with Naseem Shah (who contributed six runs off 78 balls), guided Pakistan to a total of 461 runs before being bowled out by the Sri Lankan bowlers in the final session.
Despite a strong fightback from Sri Lankan off-spinner Ramesh Mendis, who claimed a five-wicket haul, Shakeel’s partnerships with the lower-order batsmen played a vital role in Pakistan’s resurgence. Particularly noteworthy was his 177-run alliance with Agha Salman (83), which helped Pakistan recover from a precarious position of 101-5 in response to Sri Lanka’s first-innings total of 312.
During his innings, Shakeel had a stroke of luck, being dropped twice on scores of 93 and 139, surpassing his previous best individual score of 125 not out. Both Shakeel and Salman showed aggressive batting, consistently finding the boundary ropes. However, the run rate slowed down after Salman’s dismissal.
Due to rain disruptions over the past two days, play began late on the third day, leading to adjustments in session timings as determined by the officials. At the end of the day’s play, Sri Lanka stood at 14 without any loss in their second innings, still trailing Pakistan by 135 runs. Nishan Madushka (8) and captain Dimuth Karunaratne (6) were at the crease.
Saud Shakeel’s double century has put Pakistan in a strong position in this rain-affected Test match. His impressive innings, coupled with partnerships with the lower-order batsmen, has given Pakistan a solid lead. However, Sri Lanka will be looking to stage a comeback in their second innings. The match promises to be an exciting battle between the two teams as they continue to fight for victory.
