1st Test: Pakistan shut in on victory regardless of poor begin in run chase after SL bowled out for 279 on Day 4

By India Today Sports Desk: Dhananjaya de Silva’s 82-run knock and early wickets throughout Pakistan’s chase stored Sri Lanka within the hunt on the shut of the fourth day of the primary Test in Galle. Abrar Ahmed, Noman Ali, and Agha Salman every took three wickets as Sri Lanka have been bowled out for 279 of their second innings, a complete made possible solely by de Silva’s fast 82 off 118. Pakistan have been 48/3 at Stumps on Wednesday (July 19), needing 131 to win, with Prabath Jayasuriya taking two wickets.

Day 4 of the Galle Test started with Sri Lanka resuming their innings at 14/0, trailing Pakistan by 135 runs. Pakistan pacers rapidly made their mark, eradicating out the Sri Lankan captain and setting the tone for the day. Kusal Mendis and Angelo Mathews, two key gamers for Sri Lanka, have been quickly despatched again to the pavilion, leaving the staff at a precarious 94/3 as lunch was known as.

The afternoon session noticed Pakistan keep their momentum, with Madushka being dismissed shortly after reaching his half-century. However, Dhananjaya de Silva emerged as a beacon of hope for Sri Lanka, his partnerships with Chandimal and Mendis serving to the staff keep away from an innings defeat and inch into the lead by tea time.

The last session of the day proved disastrous for Sri Lanka, who misplaced their remaining 4 wickets in a mere 4 overs. The downfall started with Mendis, who was unable to succeed in his half-century, adopted by the dismissal of de Silva, who had been batting impressively at 82 runs off 118 balls. Ultimately, Sri Lanka set a goal of 131 runs for Pakistan to chase within the fourth innings.

With solely 15 overs left within the day, Pakistan would have ideally appreciated to enter the fifth day with all their wickets intact. However, this was to not be. A squandered assessment, an ill-advised shot, and a catastrophic run-out resulted in Pakistan ending the day at 48/3, nonetheless needing 83 runs to safe victory.

— ENDS —

| Sledging Room, Ep 60 embed code