Pakistan vs Sri Lanka Rawalpindi Test ends in a draw
What's the story
The first Test match between Sri Lanka and Pakistan at Rawalpindi ended in a draw. The result was largely expected as neither team could capitalize on the opportunities presented throughout the match. On the final day, Sri Lanka's bowlers made significant progress by taking four wickets during an eventful morning session. This left Pakistan with an uncertain lead of 139 runs at lunch, making them susceptible to a potential collapse that could have opened up a narrow path to victory for Sri Lanka.
Match dynamics
Sri Lanka strike early on Day 5
Pakistan's innings took a hit when Azan Awais was dismissed on the first ball of the day. He edged Lahiru Kumara to second slip.
Mohammad Taha followed suit five balls later as Sri Lanka's disciplined bowling attack drew his edge outside off stump.
The wickets left Pakistan in a precarious position with their lead reduced to an insecure 139 at lunch, making them vulnerable to a potential collapse that could have opened up a narrow path to victory for Sri Lanka.
Resilience
Babar, Saud resist Sri Lankans with a solid stand
Babar Azam (34) and Saud Shakeel (97) put up a resilient partnership, keeping Sri Lanka at bay for an hour with their contrasting styles.
Babar was aggressive, playing some exquisite shots through covers and straight down the ground. He even flicked and pulled into gaps to keep Pakistan's lead growing.
On the other hand, Shakeel was more cautious, especially against balls outside off stump.
Missed chances
Fernando stands out in otherwise flat show from Sri Lankans
Sri Lanka's bowlers were relentless, with Fernando being the standout performer.
He troubled Babar early in his innings and even got an edge that floated to Kamindu Mendis, who dropped a simple catch.
Despite their disciplined bowling, Sri Lanka couldn't get past the stubborn partnership of Shakeel and Ghazi Ghori.
They kept Pakistan at bay for most of the second session, pushing Sri Lanka's hopes of victory further away.
Final moments
Shakeel's dismissal signals end of the match
Shakeel's dismissal for 97 came after he tried to hit Kumara back over his head in the fading light.
His wicket signaled the end of any hopes for a result as both teams shook hands just 25 minutes into the final session with Pakistan leading by 272 runs with two wickets still in hand.
The light had been fading and a result was unlikely, leading to an inevitable draw.