GALLE: Pakistani left-handed middle-order batsman Saud Shakeel created history on Tuesday by becoming the first Pakistani player to score a double century in Tests against Sri Lanka.
Saud Shakeel showcased remarkable composure as he walked out to bat when Pakistan was struggling at 101/5 on Day 2 of the ongoing first Test. His solid performance helped revive his team and set a new record with a double century.
Shakeel impressively reached a score of 200 off 350 deliveries, including 18 boundaries. With this accomplishment, he surpassed Mohammad Hafeez’s record of 196 in Colombo, becoming the Pakistani batsman with the highest Test score in Sri Lanka.
Saudi Shakeel’s Innings
During his extraordinary innings, Saud Shakeel formed a marathon 177-run partnership with Salman Ali Agha, who played a crucial role in Pakistan’s recovery. Unfortunately, Agha fell just 17 runs short of his second Test century, scoring 83 off 113 balls with nine boundaries and a six.
Nevertheless, Shakeel remained the star of the show with his courageous knock. He also contributed significantly in vital partnerships with Noman Ali and Naseem Shah.
Saud Shakeel’s exceptional performance after a dismal start put Pakistan in a commanding position in the Galle Test.
Earlier in the match, Shakeel reached his second Test century with a boundary and took three runs during a 177-run partnership with Agha Salman. This partnership rescued Pakistan from a precarious position at 101-5 on day two, countering the Sri Lankan spinners led by left-armer Prabath Jayasuriya, who had claimed three top-order wickets, including skipper Babar Azam, on the previous day.
While rain delayed the start of the day’s play, Saud Shakeel’s historic innings brought the spotlight back to the match, showcasing his resilience and contributing significantly to Pakistan’s resurgence.
