Pakistan’s first-innings total of 434-9 was built on valuable contributions from the middle and lower order.

RAWALPINDI: Pakistan debutant fast bowler Saqib Khan delivered an outstanding performance with a seven-wicket haul as the hosts bowled out Sri Lanka for 446 on the fourth day of the opening Test at Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium on Thursday.

Sri Lanka, resuming their first innings at 404-4, lost their remaining six wickets for just 42 runs and were dismissed for 446 in 117.2 overs, securing a narrow 12-run lead over Pakistan.

Pakistan had declared their first innings at 434-9, leaving the visitors with only a slim advantage despite their strong position on the third day.

Saqib Khan Makes History on Test Debut

Saqib finished with impressive figures of 7-130 in 34 overs, equalling the record for the most wickets taken by a Pakistani bowler on Test debut.

He also became only the fourth Pakistani cricketer to claim seven wickets in his first Test innings, delivering a breakthrough performance that shifted the momentum in Pakistan’s favour.

The debutant provided the crucial breakthrough by dismissing Sri Lankan captain Kusal Mendis for 119, ending a significant partnership that had frustrated Pakistan’s bowling attack.

Saqib continued his impressive spell by removing Sonal Dinusha (20), Milan Rathnayake (12), Lahiru Kumara (0) and Asitha Fernando (4), helping Pakistan dismantle the lower order.

Mohammad Abbas contributed two wickets, while Razaullah claimed one as Pakistan completed the innings.

De Silva and Mendis Lead Sri Lanka’s Resistance

Sri Lanka had appeared firmly in control after the third day, largely due to a remarkable batting partnership between Dhananjaya de Silva and captain Kusal Mendis.

De Silva scored a commanding 167 off 246 balls, hitting 20 boundaries, while Mendis contributed 119 from 202 deliveries, including 10 fours and four sixes.

Their fifth-wicket partnership surpassed Sri Lanka’s previous best against Pakistan of 207 runs, establishing a new record between the two sides.

Mendis also became the first Sri Lankan to score a century in his maiden Test as captain.

However, Pakistan’s bowlers responded strongly on Thursday, with Saqib spearheading the attack and preventing Sri Lanka from building a substantial first-innings advantage.

Pakistan’s First-Innings Contributions

Pakistan’s first-innings total of 434-9 was built on valuable contributions from the middle and lower order.

Saud Shakeel narrowly missed a century, scoring 93, while debutants Tayyab Arif and Mohammad Taha registered half-centuries.

Arafat Minhas also made an impressive contribution with a brisk 52, helping Pakistan post a competitive total before declaring their innings.