Pakistan’s Abdullah Shafique played a sensational innings, scoring a magnificent double century, as Pakistan dominated Sri Lanka on the third day of the second Test match in Colombo. With a commanding lead of 397 runs, Pakistan ended the day at 563-5 after dismissing Sri Lanka for just 166 in the first innings.
Abdullah Shafique, opening the innings for Pakistan, displayed his class and prowess with the bat by scoring a brilliant 201 runs. His innings included 19 fours and four sixes, showcasing his ability to score boundaries effortlessly. At the age of 23 years and 246 days, Abdullah became the third-youngest Pakistani player to achieve a Test double century, following in the footsteps of legendary players Javed Miandad and Hanif Mohammad.
Joining Abdullah in the run-fest was Agha Salman, who contributed an unbeaten 132 runs off just 148 balls. Salman’s innings was adorned with 15 fours and a six, displaying his excellent form and timing. Together, Abdullah and Salman played a crucial role in maintaining Pakistan’s dominance in the Test match.
However, the day wasn’t without its challenges for Pakistan. Sarfaraz Ahmed, who was batting on 14, was forced to retire hurt after being struck on the helmet by a fast delivery. Mohammad Rizwan replaced Sarfaraz as a concussion substitute and remained unbeaten on 37 at stumps.
Saud Shakeel also made a valuable contribution with his bat, scoring 57 runs before being dismissed. Notably, Shakeel became the first-ever player in history to score a half-century in each of the first seven Tests of their career, a remarkable achievement.
In the morning session, the only wicket to fall was that of Pakistan captain Babar Azam, who was trapped in front of the stumps by spinner Prabath Jayasuriya after scoring 39 runs. Pakistan had resumed their innings on day three at 178-2, holding a 12-run lead.
On the previous day, Pakistan’s bowlers had showcased their skills by dismissing the hosts for a paltry total of 166. Naseem Shah and Shaheen Afridi were the standout bowlers, with Shah taking three wickets and Afridi grabbing one. Sri Lanka’s top-order collapsed to 36-4, and they struggled to build any partnerships of significance.
Dhananjaya de Silva was the highest run-scorer for Sri Lanka, managing 57 runs, while only two other batsmen reached double digits. Pakistan’s fielding was also impressive, with Shan Masood running out Nishan Madushka and Prabath Jayasuriya through direct hits.
Pakistan’s dominance in both the batting and bowling departments has put them in a strong position heading into the remaining days of the Test match. If they continue their excellent performance, they are poised to secure a comprehensive victory over Sri Lanka.
Overall, Pakistan’s Abdullah Shafique’s double century, along with valuable contributions from Agha Salman and Saud Shakeel, has firmly established their control over the second Test match against Sri Lanka. With a substantial lead of 397 runs, Pakistan is in a commanding position and looks set to seal a convincing victory.
