GALLE: In a gripping end to the five-day battle in the first Test at Galle, Pakistan pulled off a remarkable four-wicket victory over Sri Lanka on Thursday.
The win, led by Imamul Haq’s sterling half-century, not only gave Pakistan a 1-0 lead in the two-match series but also marked their second triumph in 11 Test matches since the start of 2022.
The green-clad team achieved the modest target of 131 runs in the early session, as the hosts’ bowling lineup, with the exception of Jayasuriya, who claimed three wickets in the second innings, failed to perform up to expectations.
With the stalwarts Babar Azam and Imamul Haq at the crease, Pakistan resumed their second innings at 48-3, requiring 83 runs to secure a 1-0 lead in the two-match series.
During the early session, Prabath Jayasuriya dealt a blow by sending the Pakistan skipper back to the pavilion with 24 runs to his name, while Haq took charge and continued to lead the campaign. Pakistan had scored 93 runs in 24.2 overs while chasing the relatively meagre target of 131. After Babar’s departure, Saud Shakeel joined forces with Imamul Haq at the crease, further fortifying Pakistan’s resolve for victory.
On the fourth day of the Test, Pakistan maintained their dominance and stayed on course for victory against Sri Lanka at Galle, despite a slight wobble in their top-order while chasing the modest target of 131 runs.
Babar Azam’s side had established their authority after securing a substantial first-innings lead of 149 runs in the opening match of the two-test series. Pakistan’s spin trio of Noman Ali (3-75), Abrar Ahmed (3-68), and Agha Salman (2-39) played a pivotal role in further strengthening their position by bowling out Sri Lanka for 279 in the second innings.
For the home side, Dhananjaya de Silva, following his first-innings century, showcased his prowess yet again with a brilliant knock of 82 runs. Nishan Madushka contributed 52 runs, while Ramesh Mendis added 42 runs to the tally before the team was bowled out.
At the time of the report, Babar Azam was batting on six, supported by opener Imam-ul-Haq at 25 runs at the other end.
Sri Lanka’s left-arm spinner, Prabath Jayasuriya, provided some resistance as he dismissed Abdullah Shafique and Shan Masood, and later ran out nightwatchman Noman Ali, preventing the match from becoming a cakewalk for Pakistan.
With this thrilling victory, Pakistan has showcased their mettle and provided cricket fans with a spectacle to remember. The upcoming second Test promises to be equally enthralling as both teams will be eager to seize the series.
