Pakistan Shaheens Take Control On Day 1 Against Sri Lanka A With Strong Bowling Performance

In the first unofficial Test at Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium, Pakistan Shaheens' bowlers excelled against Sri Lanka A. The pace duo of Kashif Ali and Khurram Shahzad were instrumental in dismissing Sri Lanka A for just 115 runs on Day 1.

Kashif Ali's impressive figures of 5/31 and Khurram Shahzad's 4/32 dismantled the Sri Lankan batting line-up. Winning the toss, Pakistan Shaheens quickly took control of the match. Kashif struck early, removing top-order batsmen with precision, ending the morning session with 3 for 23.

Khurram Shahzad provided strong support by taking two wickets, reducing Sri Lanka A to 90/6 by lunch. Sonal Dinusha scored a resilient 30, while Pasindu Sooriyabandara added 28. However, they couldn't form lasting partnerships as Pakistan's bowlers consistently found breakthroughs.

After lunch, Pakistan continued their dominance by dismissing the remaining Sri Lankan batters for just 25 more runs. Kashif Ali completed his five-wicket haul with figures of 5/31, while Khurram ended with an impressive 4/32.

Pakistan began their innings but faced an early setback when captain Mohammad Huraira was bowled for six by Vishwa Fernando. Abdul Faseeh then steadied the innings, reaching tea at 24/1 alongside Ali Zaryab.

In the final session, Pakistan's batters adopted a cautious approach to build a solid reply. Abdul Faseeh played a measured innings but was dismissed lbw by Wanuja Sahan after scoring 26. This happened just after Pakistan crossed the 50-run mark.

Steady Progress Towards Stumps

Mohammad Suleman joined Ali Zaryab at the crease and managed to keep the scoreboard moving despite disciplined bowling from Sri Lanka A. Suleman added crucial runs towards the end of play, hitting boundaries that maintained Pakistan's momentum.

By stumps, Pakistan Shaheens reached 66/2 with Ali Zaryab on 18 and Mohammad Suleman on 11. They trail by only 49 runs with eight wickets in hand. The day clearly belonged to Pakistan's bowlers, particularly Kashif and Khurram, who set an early tone.

As Day 2 approaches, Pakistan aims to strengthen their position and push for a significant first-innings lead over Sri Lanka A.