3rd Test: Pakistan lose initiative despite Azhar’s ton

Tourists pegged back by four late wickets, lead by 188 runs on final day.


Afp July 11, 2012

PALLEKELE: Pakistan’s Azhar Ali smashed a second century in successive matches to leave the final Test against Sri Lanka poised for an intriguing finish.

Azhar scored 136 as Pakistan wriggled out of a corner to post 299 for eight in their second-innings by stumps on the fourth day, a lead of 188 with two wickets in hand. The tourists now have three sessions on the fifth day to conjure a series-levelling win on a wearing pitch that will offer some turn to prolific off-spinner Saeed Ajmal.

But Sri Lanka remain favourites to win or draw the match and clinch their first series victory in three years since beating New Zealand at home in 2009. The hosts won the first Test in Galle by 209 runs before the second in Colombo was drawn.

Azhar held the innings together for six hours, hitting 13 boundaries in his fourth Test century and the third this year.

“It was disappointing to get out because Asad and I had decided to see out the day,” said Azhar. “But I’m happy to get another century. I have batted well this year and want to make good use of my form. We have the bowlers to do the job for us. I think the total we have is good enough to defend. The wicket has slowed down, but there is still something in it for the bowlers.”

Published in The Express Tribune, July 12th, 2012.

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