Pakistan Defeats Sri Lanka in Galle Test, Takes Series Lead

Pakistan cricket achieved a thrilling victory against Sri Lanka in the opening Test match in Galle on Thursday. 

The Men in Green now hold a 1-0 lead in the 2-match series as they resumed their run-chase at 48-3 with skipper Babar Azam and Imam-ul-Haq at the crease.

In an impressive display, the flamboyant batsman, Babar Azam, played a fine knock of 24 runs, smashing five boundaries before being caught by Prabath Jayasuriya. Youngster Saud Shakeel also showed promise but was dismissed early after scoring a modest 30 runs.

However, Imam-ul-Haq remained unbeaten and displayed his prowess by completing a well-deserved half-century, including one maximum and four boundaries. This victory marks Pakistan’s first win in the red ball format in a year.

During the game, Babar and his squad faced some challenges, losing three wickets while chasing a target of 131 runs on the penultimate day. Thanks to the brilliant performance of spinners Noman Ali and Abrar Ahmed, the hosts were bowled out for 279 runs.

As the day came to a close, the Men in Green were at 48 for 3, with 83 runs still required to take the lead in the two-match series.

With this significant victory for Pakistan cricket, the anticipation builds for the second Test, scheduled to begin on Monday (July 24) in the capital city.