GALLE: An unbeaten 160 from Abdullah Shafique has led Pakistan to a historic win over Sri Lanka in the first Test of the two-match series. Pakistan has become the first team to chase the target of over 300 runs at the venue. Babar XI has taken a 1-0 lead in the two-match series.
The day started with Pakistan resuming their innings at 222-3. Sri Lanka remained under pressure as they lost both reviews one after another. Muhammad Rizwan and Shafique had a smooth partnership of 71 runs until Rizwan departed after scoring 40 runs.
At one moment, Pakistan lost two wickets in a span of 27 runs as Agha Salman and Hassan Ali couldn’t hold the fort. However, Muhammad Nawaz held his nerves and provided Shafique with the much-needed stand. The duo had a partnership of 41 runs, steering Pakistan towards a historic victory.
Pakistan now holds the record for the highest run-chase at Galle. Previously, Sri Lanka held the record after chasing 268 against New Zealand. Shafique was named the Player of the Match for his match-winning efforts.
