Pakistan bowlers thrashed Sri Lanka’s batting lineup in the second Test against Pakistan in Colombo. Pakistani bowlers left no stone unturned, taking down eight Sri Lankan wickets before tea on the very first day of the match. With the batters collapsing frequently, the hosts were restrained to 140 runs in the first innings by the 40th over.
Naseem Shah, a bowler of great precision and temperament, led the Pakistani attack, accounting for three of the eight wickets. His synergy with Abrar, who bowled from the opposite end and claimed two wickets, was effective.
Fielding Proves Crucial for Pakistan
In the third over of the day, Shan Masood gave Pakistan the initial breakthrough with a spectacular throw that dismissed Nishan Madushka. Unfortunately for Madushka, he was struck out as the ball hit the stumps at the striker’s end. Later in the game, Shan repeated his brilliance in fielding, running out Prabath Jayasuriya and solidifying Pakistan’s fielding prowess.
Shaheen Shah Afridi continued the onslaught in the seventh over, sending Kusal Mendis back to the pavilion, further destabilizing the hosts. The hosts had chosen to bat first after winning the toss, a decision that looked questionable after an early morning shower caused a slight delay in proceedings.
Before long, Naseem Shah demonstrated his capacity as a potent threat for Sri Lanka, clinching two wickets quickly. The pacer dismissed Angelo Mathews and Dimuth Karunaratne, experienced batters Sri Lanka sorely needed during this tumultuous period. Then, in the 33rd over, Chandimal fell to Shah.
Abrar Ahmed wasn’t far behind in showcasing his bowling skills, claiming the wickets of Samarawickrama, Dhananjaya, and Mendis within just four overs.
