Shakeel edges Pakistan ahead after SL strikes: 1st Test, Day 1 (Rawalpindi)

Pakistan finished Day 1 of the opening Test against Sri Lanka in a strong position at 281 for 5, with Saud Shakeel leading the late-order resistance with an unbeaten 57.

Tayyab Arif also impressed with an aggressive 57 off 51 balls, while Mohammad Taha contributed a valuable 51 to give Pakistan a solid platform. Babar Azam’s 50 further strengthened the home side’s innings.

Sri Lanka managed five wickets during the day but struggled to contain Pakistan’s scoring, particularly during the middle sessions. Asitha Fernando was the pick of the visitors’ bowlers with 2 for 64, while the other bowlers shared the remaining wickets.

With Shakeel still at the crease and Pakistan having five wickets in hand, the hosts will look to build a substantial first-innings total on Day 2.

Pakistan 281 for 5 (Shakeel 57*, Arif 57, Taha 51, Fernando 2-64) vs Sri Lanka.

Nov 2026.