Pakistan dominated the third day of the test match against Sri Lanka, consolidating their position of strength and virtually ensuring victory thanks to Abdullah Shafique and Agha Salman. These batsmen, Shafique and Salman, showcased exceptional performances, leaving Sri Lanka’s bowlers frustrated and wicketless for most of the day.
Shafique’s double century and Salman’s rapid century were the standout highlights of the day. Shafique and Salman powered Pakistan to score a mammoth 385 runs for the loss of only three wickets on the third day. By the end of the day, Pakistan had amassed a commanding total of 563 for five wickets, establishing an imposing lead of 397 runs.
Shafique’s innings was characterised by resolute defence, elegant lofted shots, and expertly releasing pressure when needed. On the other hand, Salman displayed dynamic stroke play, accelerating the run-scoring and bringing up his fifty off just 50 deliveries and his century in 123 balls.
The Sri Lankan bowlers toiled hard but found little success. Even when they managed to pick up wickets, the damage had already been done, and Pakistan’s batting line-up proved relentless in its pursuit of runs.
The scoring rates in each session were indicative of Pakistan’s dominance: a cautious 95 runs in the morning session, followed by an assertive 124 runs in the afternoon, and a blistering 166 runs in the final session.
In addition to Shafique and Salman’s heroics, other Pakistani batsmen contributed significantly to the team’s colossal total. Saud Shakeel reached his sixth test half-century in seven tests, setting a remarkable record as the first player in test cricket history to achieve fifty or more runs in each of their first seven tests.
With Pakistan’s substantial lead, the focus now turns to when they will declare their innings, as only two full days of cricket remain. Sri Lanka faces the arduous task of saving the test match, and it’s unlikely that weather conditions will come to their rescue.
The day was not without controversy, as Sri Lankan bowler Asitha Fernando received a demerit point for breaching the International Cricket Council’s (ICC) code of conduct during his inappropriate celebration after dismissing Shakeel.
Pakistan’s approach to the day’s play was calculated and effective, meticulously pacing their innings to demoralise any hopes of a Sri Lankan comeback. The morning session was steady and cautious, allowing them to settle in and preserve wickets. As the day progressed and the sun beat down harder, the batting tempo increased, and boundaries flowed more freely.
Overall, Pakistan’s batting performance was anything but tedious, and they demonstrated a well-planned strategy to dismantle Sri Lanka’s hopes of a resurgence. The visitors, especially Shafique and Salman, batted with skill, flair, and determination, leaving the hosts with an uphill battle to save the test match unless inclement weather comes to their rescue.
