Mahela Scores a Ton as Sri Lanka in Driver's Seat against Pakistan

Pakistan had a long day at work, as the Sri Lankan batsmen grinded the m to be firmly in the driver’s seat in the second test match between the two sides, at Dubai.

Resuming the day after a strong start by Silva, Sangakkara and Kaushal started the day on a positive note, as both of them steadily played for the first hour. But Sangakkara fell soon to Rahat Ali, who was probably Pakistan’s best bowler of the day. Later, Junaid Khan removed Chandimal cheaply, and Pakistan saw a glimmer of hope to bounce back. But any such possibility of recovery was smashed by Kaushal-Jayawardene pair, who steadied the Sri Lankan ship.

Both of them looked solid, and played the Pakistani bowlers without any sort of trouble. Kaushal got another well-deserving 50, whereas Jayawardene kept the score ticking along. Just when Kaushal was nearing to an eventual century, Hafeez trapped him in front of wicket, just 5 shy of a maiden century.

But Jayawardene continued to pile on. Pakistan’s trouble worsened after Sarfraz Ahmed dropped the captain Angelo Mathews on 5. While he continued his good form to remain not-out on 42, Jayawardene smashed his 32nd test century, and ended the day with 106*.

Sri Lanka put on 318 on board, with the loss of just 4 wickets. With 3 more days still left, Pakistan needs to conjure something special to even draw this test match. Sri Lanka, on the other hand, would like to extend the current lead of 153 and bowl out Pakistani batsman later.