SL vs PAK 2023: Saud Shakeel notches up magnificent century to keep Pakistan’s hopes alive

Saud Shakeel. (Photo Source: ISHARA S. KODIKARA/AFP via Getty Images)

The two-match Test series between Sri Lanka and Pakistan kicked off in the most magnificent way for hosts Sri Lanka. Batting first after winning the toss at the Galle International Stadium, Sri Lanka notched up 312 runs on the board in the first innings after a brilliant century by Dhananjaya de Silva and a 64-run knock by Angelo Mathews.

As the visitors looked to put up a similar performance with the bat and aimed to take a big lead, their plans were quickly derailed by a brilliant showing by the Sri Lankan bowlers. Openers Abdullah Shafique and Imam-ul-Haq only scored 19 and one run, respectively, with Shan Masood adding 39 runs and Babar Azam getting dismissed cheaply for 13 runs in 16 deliveries.

As the top order crumbled, Pakistan looked for an impact from their middle order, and Saud Shakeel became their anchor. Shakeel came out to bat under immense pressure and scored a masterful century. Amassing 119 runs in 164 deliveries by the time Lunch was called on Day 3, Shakeel helped his side gain a one-run lead going into the next session.

His knock came when Pakistan needed it the most and helped them minimize their trail and even gain the lead. Furthermore, it was not only Shakeel who has been impressive with the bat on Day 3. Agha Salman’s knock of 83 runs in 113 deliveries was also exceptional for the Babar Azam-led side.

Having played their last Test match in December 2022, the hiatus from the longest format looked to be a big hurdle for Pakistan. However, the resilience of the middle order quickly brought them back on track.

On the other hand, after a brilliant performance in the first innings with the bat, Sri Lanka will look to limit Pakistan’s total to as low as possible and set a good target for them in the second innings. At Lunch on Day 3, Pakistan found themselves at a total of 313 runs with the loss of six wickets and a one-run lead.