The second Test match between Pakistan and Sri Lanka faced a major setback as Day 2 was almost completely washed out due to heavy rain. The official confirmation came after the ground’s outfield took a beating from the continuous downpour, making it impossible to resume play. Only 10 overs were possible in the morning session, leaving both teams eager for more action on Day 3.
Despite the limited play, Pakistan managed to take the lead, thanks to the solid batting performance of Abdullah Shafique and Babar Azam. Shafique, who is approaching a century, displayed a remarkable skills, while Babar played some elegant strokes during his brief stay at the crease. With eight wickets still in hand, Pakistan find themselves in a commanding position.
Pakistan’s dominant position is also attributed to their impressive bowling performance on Day 1, where they bowled out Sri Lanka for just 166 runs within two sessions. Abrar Ahmed emerged as the star performer with a four-wicket haul, well-supported by Naseem Shah with three wickets and Shaheen Afridi with one scalp. Sri Lanka’s Dhananjaya de Silva fought hard with his 57-run knock, but Pakistani bowlers proved to be too strong.
Uncertainty looms over weather on Day 3 as players remain hopeful
The weather forecast for Day 3 does not look promising either, leaving players and fans anxious about the possibility of more interruptions. However, Pakistan remain optimistic and wil plan to continue with their aggressive approach, noting that they have been scoring at an impressive rate of over 4.50 runs per over.
Despite the rain-marred day, Babar Azam’s intriguing battle against Prabath Jayasuriya provided a glimpse of what could have been an engaging contest. Fans wil hope for the weather to be more forgiving, thereby allowing both teams to showcase their skills in the upcoming days. With Day 3 is scheduled for an early start at 9:45 am, cricket enthusiasts will be keeping their hopes high, looking forward to witnessing a thrilling encounter between Pakistan and Sri Lanka.
Day 2 play has been called off due to inclement weather 🌧️#SLvPAK pic.twitter.com/GIxF4Iq9bK
— Sri Lanka Cricket 🇱🇰 (@OfficialSLC) July 25, 2023
Very impressed with Pakistan’s fielding in the ongoing series against Sri Lanka. It’s been a long time since the catching and ground fielding was this impressive #SLvPAK #Cricket
— Sàif ûllàh (@SaifUllah1856) July 25, 2023
Babar Azam and all of us who were waiting to watch him bat today :#SLvPAK pic.twitter.com/VMFWIkbf4Q
— Wasif_Ali56 (@Wasif_Ali56) July 25, 2023
Its a new change in Pakistan Cricket under King Babar Azam Captaincy, from now on #PakBall #SLvPAK #PAKvsSL #BabarAzam pic.twitter.com/vhIJzADoGL
— Khuram Awan (@JShafy95022) July 25, 2023
rain has dominated test cricket on three consecutive days in three different continents!#Ashes #WIvIND #SLvPAK
— Gaurav Kalra (@gauravkalra75) July 25, 2023
– 3 different continents
– 3 different Tests
– Only the 🌧 is the constant
Cricket and rain can never be friends ❌#ENGvAUS #WIvIND