It was not much of an improvement from Pakistan’s second innings batting at Galle in the first Test as Sri Lanka swept up all the honours on the first day of the second Test at P. Sara Oval in Colombo.
One can only imagine the mayhem that took place to leave Pakistan feeling rather uneasy after being bowled out for just ninety in thirty-six overs in their first innings. Shoaib Mallik was the top scorer for Pakistan with thirty-six runs, indicative of just how paltry Pakistan’s day had been.
Nuwan Kulasekara is clearly enjoying the lead role with the new ball as he derailed Pakistan with four prize wickets including that of the century maker from the first Test, Mohammad Yousuf. Thilan Thushara contributed two wickets, including that of Pakistan captain, Younis Khan. Ajantha Mendis was then allowed to run free to polish off the tail with three wickets and set Pakistan on the back foot. Muttiah Muralitharan’s absence, needless to say, has not dented Sri Lanka thus far.
Sri Lanka’s batting score card then on day one was in stark contrast to Pakistan. Paranavitana had a useful partnership with Sri Lankan captain, Kumar Sangakkara, the latter leading the way for the hosts with an unbeaten eighty-one. Saeed Ajmal picked up his second wicket, that of Mahela Jayawardene, but Sri Lanka were firmly in control at stumps at 164 for three, and a clear lead of seventy-four runs with seven wickets still remaining.
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