COLOMBO: Pakistan secured a remarkable victory over Sri Lanka, completing a historic series sweep with an emphatic win by an innings and 222 runs in the second Test. The comprehensive triumph marked Pakistan’s first clean sweep victory against Sri Lanka in their home territory since 1994, cementing their position as the top team in the World Test Championship (WTC) 2023-25 standings with a perfect 100 percent winning record.
Resuming Sri Lanka’s struggling second innings, Noman Ali was the star performer for Pakistan, claiming a sensational seven-wicket haul for 70 runs. Angelo Mathews and Ramesh Mendis offered some resistance with a 34-run partnership for the seventh wicket, but Noman’s outstanding bowling soon dismantled the Sri Lankan batting tail, ensuring a convincing victory for Pakistan. Naseem Shah also contributed significantly with three wickets for 44 runs in the second innings.
At tea on Day 4, Sri Lanka was facing a daunting task at 143/6, still trailing by 267 runs to avoid an innings defeat. Angelo Mathews (38*) and Ramesh Mendis (0*) were the batsmen at the crease during the break.
Pakistan’s Dominance Against Sri Lanka
Throughout the match, Pakistan’s dominance was evident, courtesy of Abdullah Shafique’s outstanding first-innings double century, and Noman Ali’s impressive performance with the ball. Shafique’s 201 runs and Noman’s seven-wicket haul in the second innings laid the foundation for Pakistan’s success.
Pakistan’s skipper, Babar Azam, wisely declared the first innings at 576/5, securing a substantial lead of 410 runs. Mohammad Rizwan (50* off 67 balls) and Agha Salman (132* off 154 balls) played crucial roles in the declaration.
Abdullah Shafique’s remarkable maiden double century, alongside contributions from Shan Masood (51) and Saud Shakeel (57), played a pivotal role in Pakistan’s dominant first-innings total.
Sri Lanka’s batting struggle continued as their openers, Nishan Madushka and Dimuth Karunaratne, offered resistance with a 69-run partnership. However, Noman Ali’s brilliant bowling effort broke through Sri Lanka’s batting, leading to the downfall of Madushka (33) and Kusal Mendis (12).
