Day1: Sri Lanka carries the day at Rawlpindi!

The first test between Pakistan and Sri Lanka commenced at Rawalpindi after introduction of two teams with Gen Pervez Musharraf, the Chief Executive of Pakistan. Having defeated Pakistan on its own soil in One-Day Series, Sri Lanka was in high spirits, while Pakistan had to restore its stature in World Cricket and salvage the lost prestige. It could only be done by winning the test series or giving a performance commensurate with its status in the Cricket World.

Adopting a no risk policy Pakistan chose to depend more on experience than youth. Younis Khan, who had done extremely well in domestic cricket and the recent matches against Sri Lanka, was the only one to be awarded the test cap. The remaining members of the team were all those who had represented Pakistan for many years. A result oriented pitch was prepared because Pakistan had full faith both on its bowling as well as batting.

After winning the toss, Sanath Jayasuriya put Pakistan to bat. The pitch behaved almost exactly as predicted by the experts. The pathetic total of 182 runs that Pakistan achieved was again the result of the team's non-professional attitude, carelessness and lack of application. Neither there were any ghosts in the pitch that the batsmen could not encounter nor was the Sri Lanka bowling as unplayable as the result showed. The batsmen throwing away wickets through atrocious shots, the debacle was of their own making.The redeeming factor, however, was the return to from of star batsman Inzamam-ul-Haq. After playing two much of one day cricket during the recent past the players appeared having almost forgotten the difference between tempo, style and characteristics of the two versions of the game. If the batsmen had applied themselves properly, the whole team could not have been out in less than a day. Having lost 2 wickets for 58 runs, the start of Sri Lanka inning was not very enterprising either. Had Pakistan amassed around 300 runs it would have been within the scope of its bowlers to cope with the visitors batting. A fact that needs attention is that in an effort to strengthen the team's batting, the Pakistan selectors sacrificed the team's bowling strength. While the team was already a pace bowler short, Wasim Akram suffered an injury, depleting the strength further. The Pakistan bowlers were thus under tremendous pressure to get the visitors out cheaply. Pakistan has never won a match on the strength of its fielding and any serious lapses occurring during the match would prove disastrous for Pakistan.

The detailed session reports are appended below:

THE FIRST HOUR OF THE MATCH: The inspection of the pitch indicated the track was covered with adequate grass, considered something unusual under Pakistan's weather conditions. The experts opined it would help the seamers at least in the first session. Sanath Jayasuriya winning the toss put the Pakistan team to bat, perhaps the right decision considering the pitch and weather conditions. Earlier, the teams, officials and organisers of the match were introduced to the Gen Pervez Musharraf, the Chief Executive of Pakistan.

To date, Sri Lanka and Pakistan have played 21 tests with Pakistan winning 10, Sri Lanka winning 3 and 8 drawn. The Pakistan team opened its batting with Saeed Anwar and Wajahatullah Wasti keeping Aamer Sohail for the one down position. Influenced by the pitch forecast, Sri Lanka took a defensive field with three slips and a gully. The first over by Chaminda Vaas conceded four runs, with a cover drive for 3 runs by Saeed Anwar. Since the pitch played no tricks, Saeed continued with his aggressive designs, hitting the first boundary of the inning to Chaminda Vaas in the cover region. He repeated a similar shot in the 7th over adding another four to the Pakistan total. Playing comfortably, Pakistan scored an easy 36 in the first 10 overs, Saeed Anwar (20) and Wasti (9). Although Vaas maintained a good line and length, he had trouble with his run up, conceding 6 noballs in his first 5 overs.

PAKISTAN STRUGGLE AS WICKETS FALL: Chaminda Vaas continued to maintain a good line. Helped by some extra bounce, he beat the Pakistani opening players quite frequently. In an effort to establish himself as an opener, Wasti played cautiously, ducking down to the bouncers, while Saeed Anwar continued playing aggressive shots. Sri Lanka achieved their first success claiming the golden wicket of Saeed Anwar, trying to make a shot on a rising ball from Vaas that could well be left untouched. It was 2nd ball of the 15th over that Saeed failed to resist the temptation giving an easy catch to Arnold in the slips. Pakistan was 44 for 1 at the end of the 15th over.

Chaminda Vaas achieved his 2nd success when Aamer Sohail snicked a perfect delivery in the hands of wicket keeper Kaluwitharana. In the 17th over Pakistan had lost two precious wickets for 46 runs. While Saeed Anwar scored a useful 23 runs, Aamer Sohail went out for a duck. By losing two of its best batsmen, the Pakistan team came under tremendous pressure, the last six overs providing only 2 runs in exchange for 2 wickets. Inzamam-ul-Haq joined Wasti who was holding the crease with confidence, an essential requirement to stem the rot. Inzamam is basically a very aggressive batsman but has passed through a lean period during Pakistan team's tour of Australia. With a lot of promising youngsters in the pipeline, Inzamam needed to make good use of the opportunity to rehabilitate himself in the side. Pakistan received another jolt when Wajahatullah Wasti; the only player to hold the crease confidently gave an easy catch to Arnold in the slips on a rising ball from Wickramasinghe. With his long stay at the wicket he managed to score 17 runs in 66 balls. Pakistan was thus 3 down for 59 runs on the board.

Yousuf Youhana joined Inzamam to see off the leftover few minutes of the pre-lunch session that ended with Pakistan's score 65 for 3. Inzamam and Youhana batting with 11 and 1 respectively. By losing 3 wickets for 65 runs, Pakistan had a miserable pre-lunch session. It was an inept bating performance in which the batsmen threw away their wickets by offering easy catches to an immaculately placed field by Sri Lanka, especially the slips making no mistake. The Sri Lankan bowlers exploited the pitch to their best advantage prompting the Pakistani batsmen to play undesirable shots. Inzamam and Youhana are excellent batsmen. They had only to play with caution and responsibility.

PRESSURE ON AND WICKETS GO DOWN: Resuming the innings after a pre-lunch debacle of 65 for 3, the Pakistani pair of Inzamam-ul-Haq and Yousuf Youhana tried to make amends for the follies committed by the earlier batsmen. This was absolutely essential not only for laying a strong foundation for Pakistan's Ist inning, but also to please the crowd that had started building up. To graft the inning that was in doldrums so far, both the players started cautiously scoring only 4 runs in two overs except for a likely run out chance when Youhana slipped on the crease in an attempt to take a run. They however opened up slightly, hitting a four each to Zoysa who conceded 10 runs in the 27th over of the day. In the 29th over Youhana again hit Zoysa for an exciting four through the covers. At the end of 30 overs Pakistan was 86 for 3 with Inzamam (17) and Youhana (14) still at the crease. In the 34th over Sri Lanka introduced spin in the game bringing Muralitharan in the attack. Muralitharan a veteran of 227 wickets till the start of this match, is one of the best off spinners in the game. For some years now, he has been the most effective weapon in Sri Lanka's bowling armourary.

The moisture in the pitch having almost dried by the 35th over, the wicket eased up with the ball not moving in the air as much as it did in the morning, providing the freedom of stroke making to the batsmen. Both the batsmen came out of their groove and hit some beautiful strokes. By the end of 40 overs, Pakistan was 113 for 3 with Inzamam and Youhana batting at (35) and (23) respectively. It was in the 44th over that Muralitharan met with his first success inducing Yousuf Youhana to play a wild shot to give Russel Arnold his third catch of the day. Youhana had scored 32 runs in his 77 ball stay at the wicket. Younis Khan the lucky youngster to win the test cap joined Inzamam and played with such a restraint that he opened his account in the 5th over. Inzamam facing most of the deliveries infact kept the youngster away from confronting the Magical Muralitharan. The off spinner having laid a trap of close-in fielders around him did not allow the youngster to open up. Pakistan was 135 for 4 in 50 overs. While at the same total Pakistan suffered a major loss when Inzamam-ul-Haq, chasing an outgoing ball from Wickramasinghe gave an easy catch to Arnold in the slips, his fourth catch of the day. Inzamam was out after playing a prolific inning of 44 runs. Moin Khan, the Pakistani's most versatile wicket-keeper batsman joined young Younis Khan. With two new batsmen at the crease the slump in rate of scoring was natural. At tea break Pakistan was 142 for 5 with Younis (3) and Moin (5) at the crease.With Inzamam's ouster, Pakistan team was under tremendous pressure. Most of the recognized batsmen back to the pavilion with remote chance of a recovery.

PAKISTAN'S PATHETIC BATTING ENDS: Pakistan resumed the last session of the day at 142 for 5 while Younis Khan, a debutante with no experience of playing under pressure, Moin Khan a seasoned campaigner. In addition to his important role as wicket-keeper has lately turned into a dependable batsman. He has played some sparking innings in the past, at times emerging as a match winner. With Pakistan having lost its major batting strength, there was no room for adventurism. The players needed to stay at the crease for as long as they could. There had been no blemish in Sri Lanka's fielding. Any loose shot by the batsman could bring doom to Pakistan's inning. Pakistan lost its 6th wicket Younis Khan, when he got an incoming delivery from Wickramasinghe on his pad. In a futile effort to dig in, he scored only 12 runs in 55 balls that he faced. Pakistan was 166 for 6 in the 61st over. The disaster struck when Moin Khan also snicked a Wickramasinghe delivery to the wicket-keeper after playing a brisk inning of 21. Pakistan lost its 7th wicket at 167.

The game was now in the hands of Abdur Razzaq and Wasim Akram, both of them being excellent fighters. It was, however, shocking to see Wasim Akram going down the pitch, hitting a one-day style shot, offering a dolly catch to Chaminda Vaas at long off, providing Muralitharan his second wicket. Pakistan was 168 for 8. It was unbecoming for a player of Wasim Akram's stature to hit such an atrocious shot at a juncture when Pakistan's inning needed the badly required stability. Abdur Razzaq was the 9th man to go, smartly stumped by wicket-keeper Kaluwitharana while simulating one-day shot on a Muralitharan delivery. Like Wasim Akram he also did not appear having come out of the one-day cricket syndrome. The tail-enders not table to hold on any more, Waqar was held in the slip by Ranatunga for a dot. Pakistan was thus out for 182 before close of the first day. In ultimate analysis it was a pathetic batting performance.

SRI LANKA LOSE TWO WICKETS: Sri Lanka opened its inning with Jayasuriya and Atapattu. Wasim Akram launched the attack for Pakistan while Waqar Younis bowled from the other end. With three slips and a gully, the Pakistan field placing was almost identical to Sri Lanka. Although one cannot predict the outcome of a cricket match, a score of 182 did not appear a big total for Pakistan to defend. Marvan Atapattu hit first four of the inning to Waqar Younis in the second over of the day but out next ball, caught by Wajahatullah Wasti in the slips. Sri Lanka lost its first wicket after just 9 runs on the board. To the visitors's delight the Pakistani's star bowler Wasim Akram suffered an injury in his third over and left the field. While Shahid Afridi came in as a substitute fielder, Abdur Razzaq bowled the left over deliveries to complete the over. Russel Arnold joined his skipper and both of them playing fluent shots took the score to 38 runs when Jayasuriya snicked a Waqar Younis delivery into the safe hands of Moin Khan after scoring 14 runs. Arvinda de Silva, one of the top Sri Lankan batsmen discarded for the one-day series, came in to bat. He, alongwith former captain Arjuna Ranatunga had been called from Sri Lanka to strengthen the Test XI. The Sri Lankan inning closed at 58 for 2 with Russel Arnold (23) and de Silva (10) at the crease. Waqar Younis not in his top form, took both the wickets. The two batsmen playing with confidence, Pakistan's bowling and fielding would remain under pressure for the rest of the inning.

Day2: Sri Lanka in command but collapse in the end

The second day of the match presented a mixture of dull as well as exciting cricket. The pitch having turned into a batsman's paradise was not providing any help to the bowlers. Wasim Akram's absence on account of a hamstring had depleted the Pakistanis' bowling to quite an extent. Sri Lanka continued to follow its strategy of consolidating their inning with a view to take a formidable lead. Following the no-risk policy they batted with absolute care, avoiding unnecessary shots.

Sri Lanka started the day with its overnight score of 58 for 2. Although Pakistan was able to take the early wicket of Russel Arnold when Sri Lanka was at 69, the Sri Lankan batsmen dug themselves in so well that it was extremely difficult for the Pakistani bowlers to uproot them. Playing a steady game, they scored only 31 runs in the first hour of the day. After achieving half of Pakistan's target they became firm on the strategy of defensive batting that they had decided to follow.

The change in the nature of pitch had turned Pakistans' bowling almost ineffective. The fielding lapses combined with poor field placing also jeopardised the bowlers efforts. Had Arjuna Ranatunga not been dropped by Moin Khan in an earlier stage of the match, the situation would have been different. It was de Silva-Ranatunga partnership that enabled Sri Lanka to surpass the Pakistan total and take a lead. Their determination to stay at the wicket and wait for the loose balls to hit was remarkable. Pakistan's trio of bowlers, i.e. Waqar Younis. Abdur Razzaq and Saqlain Mushtaq also maintained a tight line and length, not giving the Sri Lankans' the liberty of scoring freely. Aamer Sohail was also called in to bowl in the after-lunch session. Although he could not take a wicket he bowled the most economical spell of the day. Except for occasional boundaries the Sri Lankan batsmen were quite content with the singles and twos. They were in any case, achieving the target of surpassing Pakistan's moderate total of 182 runs. The tables were turned during the last 10 overs of the day when Abdur Razzaq and Saqlain Mushtaq struck like lightning, claiming two wickets each. It was a moment of joy for Abdur Razzaq who had toiled hard for the whole day to take his first wicket in a test. Luckily, he clinched two wickets in a row. The day ended with Sri Lanka at 290 for 8. Sri Lanka had secured a lead of 108 runs over Pakistan. The Pakistan bowlers were quite capable of claiming the remaining two wickets cheaply when the match starts the next morning. As for the lead, Pakistan could square it up easily provided the batsmen perform to their optimum batting prowess.

The detailed session reports are appended below:

A QUIET START ON THE SECOND DAY: Sri Lanka resumed its inning at the overnight score of 58 for 2, the set back to Pakistan's bowling strength being that Wasim Akram could not take the field due to the hamstring that he suffered in the opening day. In his absence the onus of getting the Sri Lankans out rested on Waqar Younis who had bowled splendidly well to take the two Sri Lankan wickets in the evening. The others to share the burden would be Abdur Razzaq and Saqlain Mushtaq along with Aamer Sohail acting as a stock bowler. It was a bright sunny day at Rawalpindi. Being a holiday, a good crowd was expected to build by lunch. Waqar Younis and Abdur Razzaq launched the attack against a prolific batsman like Aravinda de Silva and highly energetic Russel Arnold who perhaps caused a major damage to the Pakistan batting line by taking four excellent catches. Abdur Razzaq bowling the first maiden over of the day indicated that the Sri Lankans were not in a hurry to score runs.

Having skittled Pakistan out for 182 runs with all the time at their disposal, their strategy of taking no risks seemed right. Pakistan, however, got the first break through when Russel Arnold was caught by Moin Khan behind the stumps on a Waqar Younis delivery that pitched on the leg stump, after scoring 26 runs. Mahela Jayawardene joined de Silva with Sri Lanka at 69 for 3. Saqlain Mushtaq was called upon to bowl, replacing Abdur Razzaq after the end of 8th over. Having taken 107 wickets in 25 tests in a surprisingly short span of time Saqlain is reckoned as one of the best off-spinners in the game. In the 12th over of the day, Razzaq came to bowl again replacing Waqar Younis. In the absence of Wasim Akram the Pakistan Captain had no option but to juggle with his three main bowlers. The first hour of the day ended with Sri Lanka at 89 for 3 scored in 13 overs. Playing a steady game, the visitors scored only 31 runs, losing one wicket in the process. Having achieved almost half the target, Sri Lanka's approach to the game was absolutely commensurate with the demands of the occasion.

SRI LANKA CONTINUE SLOWLY: While the Sri Lankan batsmen were not taking any risks, the trio of Pakistani bowlers, Waqar, Razzaq and Saqlain also deserved the credit for restricting free stroke play of the visitors. The pitch also helped the pace bowlers. The Sri Lankans continued with their steady pace, the odd hit to the boundary line coming more on account of Pakistan's poor field placing than aggressive designs of the batsmen. A moment of excitement came in the 20th over when Mahela Jayawardene was run out after contributing very useful 42 runs. It was such a close decision that TV umpire Siddique Khan took a long time to give his verdict. Sri Lanka lost the 4th wicket for 117 runs. The visitors would have received another serious blow in the same over if Moin Khan had not dropped the new comer former captain Arjuna Ranatunga. It was a straight and simple snick on a marvelous delivery from Abdur Razzaq who troubled Ranatunga quite a lot with his in-swingers.

The Pre-lunch session ended with Sri Lanka at 133 for 4, De Silva (35) and Ranatunga (3) being at the crease. The visitors had added only 75 runs to the overnight score in 28 overs. The visitors' batting during the pre-lunch session was not enterprising by any standards, for the reason that they were not facing a big target. Even thier seasoned players like Aravinda de Silva and Arjuna Ranatunga preferred to duck down to the rising balls rather than hooking. It was an absolutely calculated-cum-disciplined display of batting. Though Pakistani bowlers did a wonderful job of containing the Sri Lankan batsmen, Waqar Younis had been the only bowler to cause major damage to Sri Lanka by claiming 3 important wickets for 42 runs.

While the Sri Lankans will plan to continue with their slow and steady pace ofscoring, the Pakistani bowlers need to be more aggressive in their efforts to get the Sri Lankans out.

SRI LANKA TAKE THE LEAD: Sri Lanka resumed after lunch against Waqar Younis and Saqlain Mushtaq in full cry. The batsmen continued with their steadiness, waiting for the loose ball to hit. In 48th over of their inning excitement rose when Ranatunga got a jet speed delivery from Waqar Younis on his pads. Umpire Dave Orchard, however, cut the excitement short by declaring the batsman not out. Sri Lanka was 154 for 4 in 50 overs of batting. They had hit only 3 boundaries in 10 overs after lunch. The crowd built up a lot after lunch while more people were pouring in. In the 54th over Aravinda de Silva hit Waqar Younis to the fence to hoist the 50 of his inning through a dashing stroke to mid-wicket. Aamer Sohail relieved Waqar Younis in 55th over to provide some relief to Pakistan's limited bowling arsenal. He posed no problems to the old compatriots Aravinda de Silva and Arjuna Ranatunga who continued advancing steadily towards Pakistan's moderate total of 182. Sri Lanka was 177 for 4 in 60 overs.

A bowling change occurred again when Abdur Razzaq replaced Saqlain Mushtaq in the 63rd over, he had not yet found the right length when Aravinda De Silva hooked him for a beautiful four. With this boundary Sri Lanka gracefully surpassed the Pakistani's total of 182 runs. In the 65th over Aravinda De Silva appeared dominating the game. Sri Lanka crossed 200 runs mark in the 70th over with de Silva 73 and Ranatunga 29, fully in command of the game. In the last over before tea Wajahatullah Wasti was given an over to try his luck but the batsmen were determined not to make a mistake. They continued playing with immense confidence ending the session at 209 for 4, De Silva 75 and Rantunga 32 continuing to consolidate the inning. The mere addition of 9 runs in 7 overs indicates their determination to stay at the crease. Aamer Sohail bowled a very tight spell conceding only 14 runs in 11 overs, but posed no dangers to the two batsmen who seemed well set on the crease.

SOME DRAMA IN THE POST TEA SESSION: Sri Lanka started the session at 209 for 4, Aravinda de Silva and Arjuna Ranatunga firmly holding the crease. Saqlain Mushtaq commenced the attack and bowled a maiden over because the batsmen were just not prepared for adventurism of any sort. However, in his next over Saqlain conceded an easy boundary to de Silva in the fine leg region. This was followed by a straight shot to the boundary by Ranatunga on an Aamer Sohail delivery. The two shots provided some excitement to the spectators after a prolonged dull and dreary spell of batting.

In 89th over of the match, when Sri Lanka was 242 for 4, Waqar Younis returned to attack with the new ball. Adbur Razzaq a successful bowler in one-days, bowled from the other end striving for a wicket in the test. The moment for jubilation arrived in the 93rd over when Razzaq clean bowled the well dug in Arjuna Rantunga for 49. On the very next ball he got Ramesh Kaluwitharana LBW, thus securing two test wickets in a row. Apart from being a personal triumph for him the fall of two wickets after the full day's play was a great break through for Pakistan. With the de Silva-Ranatunga partnership broken, Pakistan could now hope to get Sri Lanka out within a manageable lead.

Continuing with his defensive but a very useful inning Aravinda de Silva completed his 18th century in test cricket, with a single off Waqar Younis. It was a chanceless 100, which reflected his class as a batsman. Incidentally it was his 8th century against Pakistan showing that Pakistan's bowling had scarcely bothered him. Sri Lanka was 256 for 6 at this stage. After scoring the well-cherished century, de Silva opened up slightly to score runs at a faster pace.

At Sri Lankans score of 280 Saqlain Mushtaq struck like lightening trapping Aravinda de Silva LBW for 112. The player had tried to play across the line of the ball and missed. In the same over Saqlain struck again when Wickramasinghe having failed to read the spin, offered a dolly catch to substitute fielder, Shahid Afridi at wide mid on. Sri Lanka was thus 280 for 8. The last few overs were a hostile spell of bowling by the Pakistani bowlers which apart from uprooting the well dug in players like de Silva and Ranatunga also bothered other batsmen of lesser merit. The day ended with Sri Lanka at 290 for 8. They had scored 81 runs in the last session of the game at the cost of 4 wickets. Sri Lanka had secured a lead of 108 runs over Pakistan with two wickets in hand.

Day3: Sri Lanka back Pakistan to the wall

Sri Lanka resumed the play with the overnight score of 290 for 8. Although Wasim Akram's absence had taken away the venom from Pakistan's bowling, the battery headed by Waqar Younis still expected to wrap up the Sri Lanka inning quickly. Considering both Chaminda Vaas and Nuwan Zoysa as the proverbial tail-enders, they did not expect them to add so substantially to the lead. It was a sparkling knock of 53 not out by Vaas that raised Sri Lanka's score as high as 353 giving the visitors a formidable lead of 171 runs.

The Sri Lankan captain's very bold decision of opting for a heavy roller in the morning proved right. It turned the pitch firm and formidable for batting, helping the tail-enders to prolong their inning, ultimately providing the visitors a strong grip on the match. Not only that Pakistan was handicapped by absence of a strike bowler like Wasim Akram, it did not have the services of Saqlain Mushtaq the top spin bowler of the team. Sri Lanka's inning ended with an impressive total of 353 runs. Waqar Younis was the top bowler with a haul of 4 wickets. The Pakistani batsmen had a herculean task to perform. In addition to wiping out a deficit of 171 runs, they were supposed to build up a challenging score to remain in the game and to oust the visitors cheaply in their second inning. This could only be done by digging-in and playing a long inning, curbing the common tendency of buying risks or indulging in adventurism.

Incidentally the start was not so, Pakistan lost its first wicket with only 9 runs on the board when young Wajahatullah Wasti not being able to resist the temptation of hooking a short-pitched ball, fell to a brilliant catch taken by Wickramasinghe. Aamer Sohail joined Saeed Anwar at the crease. Both being batsmen of outstanding merit and having played for Pakistan for many years, were expected to take Pakistan out of the mess. Maintaining an easy pace and playing with responsibility, the two of them relied on singles and twos, hitting an occasional four and avoiding risky shots. They had raised the score to 72 when Aamer lost his wicket while attempting a sweep shot. He was caught by Jayawardene off Muralitharan for 24. The third batsman to return to the pavilion was Inzamam-ul-Haq, who lost his wicket while trying to square cut a short pitched delivery from Zoysa and was brilliantly caught by Chandana, a substitute fielder, after scoring 20 runs. At this stage Pakistan was 136 for 3 still needing 35 runs to wipe off the deficit.

Saeed Anwar played a real captain's inning but was unlucky to be out for 84. He was bowled (played on) on a Chaminda Vaas delivery. Not only that he missed a well-deserved century, his courageous battle to save Pakistan from humiliation also fell in vain. The day ended with Pakistan having lost 4 wickets for 154 runs, still needing 17 runs to wipe out the visitors' lead of 171 runs. Though Pakistan had 6 wickets in hand and full 2 days left, the team had lost its major batting strength, Yousuf Youhana, Abdur Razzaq and Moin Khan are talented batsmen but expecting them to save the match would be asking for the moon.

Saeed Anwar's marvelous inning of 84 was the glorious feature of the day. The Sri Lankans' deserve credit for a very spirited display of the game. A glorious century by Aravinda de Silva earlier in the game and a valuable knock by good old Arjuna Ranatunga in fact laid the foundation of Sri Lanka's big total. They still have a lot of cricket in them and can serve the Sri Lankan team with distinction for some time.

The third day session reports are appended below:

SRI LANKA TAKE A FORMIDABLE LEAD: The morning started with a news highly disappointing for Pakistan team and the cricket lovers in the country that Wasim Akram having not recovered from his hamstring, had been ruled out for the match. It was a big blow for Pakistan, already in deficit of over a hundred runs. The pitch continued to provide its support to the batsmen mainly on account of the heavy roller used before start of the game. Sri Lanka resumed its inning with the overnight score of 290 runs with Chaminda Vaas and Nuwan Zoysa taking the crease. Unlike the second day's defensive play, the two tail-enders adopted an offensive posture. Vaas hit the first boundary to Waqar Younis in second over of the day followed by crossing the team's total of 300 in the next over. With the runs coming up at a better pace the two tail-enders batted with more confidence than some of the regular batsmen. In the 6th over of the day Zoysa thrilled the small crowed by hooking Waqar for first sixer of the match. Having adopted an aggressive posture the visitors managed to score 31 runs in 6 overs.

Aamer Sohail replaced Abdur Razzaq in the 7th over. He tried to restrict the batsmen with his well paced bowling but did not succeed much because the tail-enders having added 40 runs in 9 overs were giving a perfect display of batsmanship. Pakistan met with its first success in the 10th over when Zoysa pulled a short pitched ball from Waqar Younis to mid-wicket and was beautifully caught by Yousuf Youhana. Sri Lanka was 331 for 9, with Muttiah Muralitharan joining Chaminda Vaas, who was facing the Pakistan bowlers with full confidence. Muralitharan, having no impressive record as a batsman not only gave a good stand to Vaas but also hit a four to Aamer Sohail in the 13th over. With a view to enhance the lead, Vaas was taking most of the strike, even at times ignoring easy singles and completed his 50 with a prolific six to Waqar. He had so far played an enterprising inning that contained 8 fours and a six.

In the first hour of the day Sri Lanka had scored 58 runs in 14 overs, the total being 348 for 9. Abdur Razzaq replaced Aamer Sohail and bowled a maiden over. Aamer having bowled economically was, however, brought in from the other end. In the 19th over, Pakistan lost the golden opportunity of ending the Sri Lanka's inning when Abdur Razzaq dropped Muralitharan on his own bowling. The success however came when Moin Khan smartly stumped Muralitharan on an Aamer Sohail delivery. The visitors first inning ended with 353 runs, Chaminda Vaas remaining not out with a sparkling 53. Waqar Younis was the most successful bowler with a haul of 4 wickets for 103 runs. Playing against a depleted bowling attack on account of Wasim Akram's absence, Sri Lanka took a formidable lead of 171 runs. Pakistan needed to play a steady inning avoiding risks and adventurism. It would be a daunting task for the Pakistan batsmen who must give a good account of their endurance as well as concentration.

PAKISTAN'S POOR START BEFORE LUNCH: Pakistan commenced its 2nd inning with Saeed Anwar and Wajahatullah Wasti against Chaminda Vaas bowling two no balls in his first over. Zoysa took the other end. The Sri Lankans had taken the field with three slips and a gully. The first boundary of the inning came when Seed Anwar beautifully hit Zoysa to the covers in the second over. Playing with a deficit of 171 runs, Pakistani batsmen were not supposed to take undue risks, unfortunately it was so. Not being able to resist the temptation of going for a big hit; Wasti hooked a short-pitched delivery from Zoysa and was brilliantly caught by Wickramasinghe. The fielder had to take 20-25 strides to take the flying catch, which can be counted one of the best in the recent past. Pakistan thus lost its first wicket with only 9 runs on the board. The lunch break came with Pakistan at 15 for 1.

PAKISTAN SEEM DETERMINED: Saeed Anwar and Aamer Sohail resumed the inning after lunch. The Pakistani batsmen requiring to play a marathon inning to square up the lead followed by building up a fighting score, started quite cautiously scoring 21 runs in 8 overs after lunch. Wickramasinghe replaced Zoysa in the 14th over with Pakistan at 36 for 1. In the 17th over Jayasuriya injured a finger while stopping an over throw and returned to the pavilion for treatment, Jayawardene taking over command of the team. First 50 of Pakistan's inning came in this over, with both Saeed Anwar and Aamer Sohail having scored 21 runs each. Wickramasinghe came to bowl in the 18th over. Maintaining a steady pace of batting, the two players relied more on singles and twos, hitting an occasional four. In the 19th over Chaminda Vaas conceded four byes when wicket keeper Kaluwitharana let go an easy ball. It raised the Pakistanis score to 58.

Zoysa again returned to bowling in the 21st over following by Muralitharan taking over the other end. Murali being the star bowler for having claimed 4 wickets in the first inning, Sri Lanka expected him to break the partnership. The ball having lost its shine could have been helpful to a spinner but surprisingly Saeed Anwar hit him for two consecutive fours in his next over. In 25 overs Pakistan had scored 72 runs for the loss of one wicket, still trailing by 99 runs. In the 26th over, Aamer Sohail, who was otherwise settled comfortably at the crease, was caught by Jayawardene off Muralitharan for 24 while attempting a sweep shot. Many observers of the game considered it a doubtful decision. Pakistan was now 72 for 2. As expected, Muralitharan had struck, though after receiving some punishment. Inzamam-ul-Haq, the highest scorer of the Pakistanis first inning joined Saeed Anwar. Inzamam being an exciting stroke player, controlling his basic instincts to play a controlled inning could be a difficult proposition for him. It was proved when playing defensively, he snicked a ball to slips that did not carry. At tea break Pakistan was 88 for 2 with Saeed Anwar 39 and Inzamam at 11. 73 runs were scored in 27 overs during the session.

PAKISTAN SUFFERS SETBACKS: Saeed Anwar 39 and Inzamam 11, took the crease after tea with Pakistanis score 88 for 2. Resuming his stroke play, Inzamam hit Muralitharan to mid-wicket for a thrilling four in the 34th over, raising his individual score to 15. In his next over Muralitharan was hit for two consecutive fours by Saeed Anwar, hoisting Pakistan's hundred and his individual 50 on the board. The runs now coming in quick succession indicated that the two batsmen intended to square up the deficit of 171 runs before the close of play. By the end of 45th over, Pakistan had reached a total of 125 for 2 and were only trailing by 46 runs. Although both Saeed and Inzamam were fast scorers basically, they set an excellent example of responsible batting, following the policy of scoring runs without taking risks, they played for the team and not for the crowd.

Cricket being the game of glorious uncertainties, it was in the 54th over when Inzamam square cut a short pitched delivery from Zoysa becoming the victim of a beautiful catch by Upul Chandana, fielding as a substitute, after scoring a very useful 20 runs. Pakistan was now 136 for 3, still needing 35 runs to wipe off the deficit. Yousuf Youhana joined Saeed Anwar in the pursuit of saving the match. With the loss of Inzamam's wicket, the Pakistani batsmen fell into the groove once again. All hopes rested on Saeed Anwar who was batting at 75 with immense confidence.

In the 66th over of the inning, the tragedy struck when Saeed Anwar playing a real captain's inning, was bowled (playing on) for an invaluable 84 on a Chaminda Vaas delivery. Pakistan lost its 4th wicket at 148 with little hope of salvaging the match. Waqar Younis came in as a night-watchman. The day closed with Pakistan having lost 4 wickets for 154 runs, still needing 17 runs. Yousuf Youhana and Waqar Younis at the crease with 6 and 0 runs respectively. With 6 wickets in hand, Pakistan were still in deficit of 17 runs. Pakistan team was in a hopeless condition. In the present circumstance it hardly had a hope of saving the match.Saeed Anwar's marvelous inning of 84 was the glorious feature of the day. The Sri Lankans deserve credit for their excellent bowling-fielding combination and a highly spirited all round display on the field.

Day4: Pakistan Fight Back As Younis Khan Shines

Pakistan started the day on a dismal note. Not only that the team had lost its four top batsmen, two of its players Wasim Akram and Saqlain Mushtaq fallen sick on the previous day were only half fit. It was a golden chance for the remaining players like Yousaf Youhana, Abdur Razzaq and debutante Younis Khan to show their mettle in a real crisis situation.

Having commenced the inning at 154 for 4 Pakistan lost Waqar Younis with the addition of only 15 runs. This was the moment when Younis Khan, playing his first test, took the crease. No one could really imagine that the boy would emerge as hero of the match. By 77th over of the match, Pakistan had squared up the lead of 171 runs and started inning from square one with only five wickets in hand. The two half fit players were not expected to contribute much. At a score of 189 on the board Pakistan lost another wicket, when Youhana, a key figure of Pakistan's middle order batting was out after scoring 18 runs. With only four wickets in hand, Pakistan was under tremendous pressure. Moin Khan who had been the team's savior on many occasion joined but could not stay on the wicket for long. His dismissal dipped Pakistan's total to 224 for 7. Abdur Razzaq, a promising all rounder with the ability to withstand pressure, came into bat. While Younis Khan continued his steady march, Abdur Razzaq the last recognized batsman in the side, was out for a mere 3 runs. At 255 for 8, Pakistan was now in dire straits. Former captain Wasim Akram joined Younis Khan, using a runner.

There came a silver lining in the dark cloud when Wasim and Younis took the mantle of taking Pakistan out of the crisis. Both of them played with immense confidence scoring with a mixture of hostility and steadiness. By the 116th over, Pakistan's inning crossed the 300 runs mark. It was a courageous rear guard action, which, after another seven overs gave Pakistan a lead of 150 runs. Wasim Akram had also completed a well deserved half-century. It was a remarkable fight back by Younis Khan (74) and Wasim Akram (52). The manner in which the two players encountered Sri Lanka's effective bowling-fielding combination showed that Pakistan's team had not lost heart after the initial set back. By tea break Pakistan were 327 for 8. By this time the two players had resorted to aggression and hit a number of fours to the delight of moderate crowd. By pulling Wickramasinghe to square leg, Younis Khan reached his individual 93, thus getting into the "nervous nineties".

All eyes were now focused on his century on debut. Excitement rose with continuous applause from the crowd. A few minutes later Younis Khan completed his maiden hundred with an on drive, rejoicing for the young lad, the team and every one else in the stadium. He had achieved what remains a cherished dream of every young cricketer. Wasim Akram who was playing some aggressive strokes at the other end was out "bat and pad" after scoring invaluable 79 runs. The record partnership of 149 runs between Younis and Wasim thus came to an end. Pakistan was 381 for 9. A half fit Saqlain Mushtaq having taken the crease, the responsibility of playing out the day rested with Younis Khan. He perhaps could not take the pressure any more, thus getting out after a glorious inning of 107 runs. Pakistan's inning ended with 390 runs on the board.

Sri Lanka commenced the second inning playing out the 3 overs left for the day scored 11 runs for no loss. A prolific century by Younis Khan and an invaluable contribution of 79 by Wasim Akram were the major feature of the day. They had almost accomplished the Herculean task of taking Pakistan out of the embarrassment of a humiliating defeat. With two of Pakistan bowlers unable to perform to the optimum, nothing could be said about the team performance. Sri Lanka needed only 209 runs to win with a full day game at their disposal. So let us keep over fingers crossed.

The fourth day session reports are appended below:

A HOPELESS SITUATION FOR PAKISTAN: With the major part of its batting strength already consumed Pakistan second inning resumes with a dismal note. While Wasim Akram may be able to bat a doubt lurks about Saqlain Mushtaq reported suffering from chest congestion and dehydration. It is a life time opportunity for young batsmen like Yousuf Youhana, Abdur Razzaq and particularly Younis Khan the debutant to excel at the moment of crisis and establish their credentials.

Yousuf Youhana and speedster Waqar Younis playing the role of a night watchman resumed the inning quite confidently smashing the Sri Lanka bowlers for two fours in the first two overs. Unluckily for Pakistan it was in the 73rd over of the inning that Waqar Younis offered a straight catch to bowler Chaminda Vaas, who made no mistake. Pakistan was 169 for 5, still 2 runs short of making up Sri Lanka's lead of 171 runs.

Younis playing the first test of his career took the crease and drove Vaas to extra cover for a four thus making up the deficit. Pakistan now essentially started from square one, with five wickets in hand. In the 77th over Younis again hit Muralitharan for a four raising Pakistan's total to 178. Wickramasinghe came to bowl in the 78th over, putting the two batsman to defence. Youhana and Younis seemed to be holding the ground firmly but were involved in lot of deliberate padding especially against Muralitharan. The tendency proved costly when Yousuf Youhana was declared caught bat and bad on a Muralitharan delivery after scoring 18 runs. Pakistan was now 189 for 6, Moin Khan joined Younis Khan in a crises ridden situation having a credit of only 18 runs with four wickets in hand. Pakistan was under tremendous pressure, especially when two of its remaining players were only half fit. In the 85th over, Younis Khan came out of the groove by hitting Muralitharan for two fours.

Pakistan's 200 appeared on the board in the next over. The two batsman were continuing with their steady march when in the 89th over Moin Khan drove Muralitharan towards 3rd man for a four. Pakistan was 208 for 6. Chaminda Vaas took the new ball in the 90th over. Zoysa had just come in to bowl in the 90th over when Younis Khan trying to play a square cut snicked him through the slips for a four. The over ended with Pakistan 221 for 6, with Younis Khan 34 and Moin Khan 9 batting. In the 96th over the tragedy struck when Chaminda Vaas got Moin Khan LBW for 10, dipping Pakistan to 224 for 7. Abdur Razzaq came to bat and played the first ball defensively. Razzaq being the last recognized batsman on the crease, Pakistan was in dire straits. At lunch, Pakistan was 230 for 7 with Younis Khan 36 and Abdur Razzaq 3 holding the crease. 76 runs were scored in 29 overs in the pre-lunch session.

PAKISTAN STRUGGLING TO SAVE TEST: Younis Khan and Abdur Razzaq resumed Pakistan's 2nd inning after lunch at 230 for 7, with the hope of building up a fighting total. In 2nd over after lunch (31st of the morning) Younis Khan hooked Zoysa for a four but the bowler met with success when on the fifth ball he got Abdur Razzaq caught behind the stumps by Kaluwirtharana for 3. Pakistan was now 236 for 8. Injured Wasim Akram to bat with Yousuf Youhana acting as the runner. In the next over Younis Khan was dropped by de Silva in the slips of the bowling of Chaminda Vaas, but immediately after, he pulled the speedster to square leg for a 4 to complete a chancy 50 in his first test. Pakistan was now 255 for 8. The score building up steadily gave added confidence to the batsmen who started scoring runs at a better pace. By the end of 108th over Pakistan was 273 for 8, a lead of 102. Younis Khan and Wasim Akram hit Wickramasinghe for two exciting fours, raising the Pakistan score to 285 for 8. Although the two batsmen were playing some risky shots, the Sri Lanka bowlers were finding it difficult to break the partnership.

By the end of 113th over Pakistan was 291 for 8 having a lead of 120 runs, while 300 of the inning was reached in the 116th over when Younis Khan drove Vaas to cover point for 3. With no runs scored on the next 17 balls, Wasim Akram smashed Muralitharan to mid on for a sparkling 4, repeating the same shot a little later. With a courageous rear guard action, the two players had raised Pakistan's score to 310 for 8. Wasim Akram completed his highly valuable 50 in the 123rd over, also raising the Pakistan's lead to 150. The manner in which the two players encountered Sri Lanka's bowling showed that Pakistan team had not lost heart after the initial set back. They made all endeavors to build up a fighting score. It was a remarkable fight back by Younis Khan (74) and Wasim Akram (52). The partnership between the two had added 91 runs. At tea, Pakistan was 327 for 8, with a lead of 156 runs.

YOUNG YOUNIS KHAN EMERGES THE HERO: The inning was resumed at 327 four 8, with Younis Khan (74) and Wasim Akram (52) seemingly determined to take the Pakistan team out of trouble. In the 131st over Wasim Akram survived a possible catch on account of a mix up between wicket keeper Kaluwitharana and Russel Arnold behind the stumps. The pair reached the 100 runs partnership in the next over. Skipper Jayasuriya came in to bowl in the 136th over causing no impact on the batsmen. However, in the next over Wasim Akram enthralled the crowed by hitting Muralitharan to extra cover for a scintillating four. He hit Muralitharan for two consecutive fours in his next over raising Pakistan's score to 364. Wickramasinghe came to bowl in the 142nd over and was very confidently pulled to square leg by Younis Khan (93). The youngster having touched the "nervous nineties", all eyes were now focused on his century on debut. With 371 runs on the board, Pakistan now had a lead of 200 runs. Younis Khan square cut Wickramasinghe for a four to reach his 98. Excitement was rising with continuous applause from the crowed. The drinks interval broke the youngster's tempo for a moment, after which with an on drive to Wickramasinghe young Younis Khan completed his maiden 100, a century on debut that remains the cherished dream of every young cricket.

Wasim Akram however continued to play some rash strokes from the other end. With a full day's play and the team short of two main bowlers, Pakistan was not yet out of danger. The record partnership of 149 runs between Younis and Wasin came to an end when Wasim gave up a "bat and pad" catch to Jayawardene of Muralitharan and was out for an invaluable 79. A prolific inning by the former captain thus came to an end, to the disappointment of he crowd, who longed for a second individual 100 in the Pakistan's inning. Pakistan was now 381 for 9 with a half fit Saqlain Mushtaq trying to hold his end. The difficult task of playing out the day and adding the maximum possible runs rested with Younis Khan. He had to keep the strike as much as he could.

Younis Khan's glorious 107, however, came to an end when he was caught by De Silva trying a cover drive. Pakistan's 2nd inning thus ended with an otherwise impressive score of 390 runs. A prolific century at debut by Younis Khan and an invaluable contribution of 79 by Wasim Akram were the major feature of the game. They had almost accomplished the Herculean task of taking Pakistan out of the embarrassment of a humiliating defeat. Sri Lanka needed to score 220 runs to win with full 5th day at their disposal. With 3 overs game remaining for the day, Sri Lanka opened its 2nd inning with their regular opener Atapattu and Sanath Jayasura against the Pakistan's bowling attack of Waqar Younis and Abdur Razzaq. Both the batsmen having hit a four each, Sri Lanka's inning closed with 11 for no loss on the board.

Day5: SRI LANKA WINS DESPITE HEROIC FIGHT BACK BY PAKISTAN

It was a day of hopes and expectation for Sri Lanka while Pakistan had apprehensions about its bowling strength. While Wasim Akram, the key bowler did not take the field, Saqlain Mushtaq, half recovered from his ailment was not expected to perform his best. Pakistan's depleted bowling attack, naturally enhanced Sri Lanka's confidence for their goal of victory, the target of 220 was not insurmountable

Sanath Jayasuriya and Marvan Atapattu started off against the bowling of Waqar Younis and Abdur Razzaq. Waqar Younis bowling an immmaculate line achieved the early break-through for Pakistan when he got Atapattu caught by Saqlain Mushtaq in the slips for 10. Bowling with three slips and a gully Waqar was showing lots of hostility. Soon after, he got Russel Arnold caught by Saqlain Mushtaq again in the slips for 6. Sri Lanka had lost two wickets for 34 runs on the board. Sri Lankans were not perturbed much. Jayasuriya and de Silva were playing quite confidently when the visitors were struck with another blow. After contributing very useful 21 runs de Silva edged an Abdur Razzaq delivery in the safe hands of Moin Khan. Sri Lanka was now 77 for 3.

Jayawardene came in and drove Waqar Younis to long off for a 4. On the other end, Jayasuriya was playing a real captain's inning. While in the 36th over Jayasuriya hoisted his 50, Sri Lanka crossed 100 of the inning. Both of the players were playing with immense confidence, when an invaluable inning of 56 runs by Jayasuriya came to an end. Sri Lanka was 116 for 4. It was a great break through for Pakistan, which needed a couple of more wickets to come back into the game.

Sri Lanka was 143 for 4 at tea. Excitement rose to its highest pitch when Jayawardene offered a scoop to Yousuf Youhana who made no mistake to hold it, umpire Zaidi not sure about the ball's passage had to consult umpire Orchard before raising his finger. The atmosphere remained engulfed in tension and anxiety until the final verdict was announced. Jayasuriya was out for 35 with Sri Lanka at 144 for 5. A little later, Arjuna Ranatunga injured a finger and left the filed as "retired hurt".

In the 57th over Sri Lanka suffered another blow when the newcomer Chaminda Vaas was run out. Sri Lanka had lost 5 wickets for 152 and needed 68 runs to win. Pakistan being almost back in the game, the match had taken a very interesting turn. The pressure mounting on Sri Lanka, the two teams were engaged in a thrilling battle between bat and the ball.

Zoysa come in to face Waqar Younis in full cry. The pressure was mounting on both sides. As the battle went on, Pakistan missed an opportunity when Kaluwithrana was dropped by Waqar Younis. A similar chance appearing again was properly utilized when Zoysa was caught by Wasti off Razzaq in the slips. This was followed by Sri Lanka losing another wicket when the newcomer Wickramasinghe was clean bowled by Razzaq, first ball. Sri Lanka was now 177 for 8 when Ranatunga returned to the crease.

Excitement was mounting with every ball. It was in no way less than a closely fought limited over game. In an atmosphere of tension and hope, the Sri Lankan batsmen continued advancing towards the target, while the Pakistan fielders never as alert before, fumbled occasionally amidst excitement. Kaluwitharana (36) and Ranatunga (29), playing a gallant inning ultimately provided Sri Lanka its well-deserved victory by 2 wickets. With a haul of 4 wickets Abdur Razzaq was the most successful Pakistani bowler. Aravinda de Silva was declared man of the match. As for Pakistan, it was perhaps the greatest fight back that the team had demonstrated in the recent past.

The highly exciting end to this test has broken the myth of the test matches labeled as boring, dull and dreary. Played in the right spirit they can be as exciting as one-Day Internationals.

The final day session reports are appended below:

PAKISTAN STARTS WITH DEPLETED BOWLING: The game resumed with Sri Lanka batting at 11 for no loss. With Wasim Akram and Saqlain Mustaq doubtful to bowl Pakistan had a depleted bowling strength, providing Sri Lanka a big advantage. Sri Lanka having performed so well in the match, a target of 220 runs did not appear very alarming. While Saqlain positioned himself in the slips, Wasim Akram did not take the field. Jayayasuriya and Atapattu opened the inning against the bowling attack of Abdur Razzaq and Waqar Younis. Pakistan achieved an early break through when Atapattu was caught by Saqlain Mushtaq off Waqar Younis for 10. It was an out swinger, which the batsman tried to drive. Sri Lanka was 16 for 1. Russel Arnold had just taken the stance when there was confident appeal for LBW against him, turned down by umpire Athar Zaidi. Being a very close decision, it created lot of excitement among the fielders as well as the crowd. Bowling with three slips and a gully, Waqar looked pretty hostile. In 8 overs, Sri Lanka was 23 for 1.

In the 9th over Jayasuriya who was playing at 9, drove Waqar through covers for a 4 to reach his 13. Continuing with his hostility Waqar Younis got Russel Arnold caught in the slips by Saqlain Mushtaq for 6. Sri Lanka was 34 for 2 in the 11th over. Aravinda de Silva who scored a highly valuable century in the first inning joined his captain. The first bowling change came in the 16th over when off spinner Saqlain Mushtaq replaced Abdur Razzaq. Sri Lanka was 45 for 2, with Jayasuriya batting at 25 and de Silva at 1. In the 18th over, de Silva drove Saqlain for a four towards the third man region, Sri Lanka completing 50 of the inning in the same over. Resuming his second spell in the 21st over Razzaq was beautifully hooked for 4 by de Silva. In the next over. Jayasuriya was lucky to survive a stumping chance when wicket keeper Moin Khan failed to dislodge the bails. This could have caused a severe blow to Sri Lanka's inning. The blow, however, did come when de Silva edged an Abdur Razzaq delivery to Moin Khan and was out for a well played 21. Sri Lanka was now 73 for 3, Mahela Jayawardena having taken the crease. By lunch, Sri Lanka was 77 for 3 with Jayasuriya at 34 and the new comer Jayawardene at 2.

TENSION MOUNTS: Commencing the inning after lunch, Sri Lanka started with easy pace of scoring against an attacking Waqar Younis, punished for a four by Jayawardene who drove him to long off. Sri Lanka was 91 for 3 Jayasuriya (41) and Jayawardene (10) at the crease. In the 36th over Jayasuriya smashed two consecutive 4s to hoist his 50. Playing a steady game and taking no risks, he was playing the real captain's inning. Sri Lanka also crossed 100 of the innings. With 115 for 3 in 40 overs, the visitors were now comfortably heading towards the target, needing 105 runs to win. Jayasuriya (55) and Jayawardene (21) looked confidently settled at the crease, when the tragedy struck. A great inning by Jayasuriya ended when after adding only one run to his score, the skipper snicked an out swinger from Abdur Razzaq into the safe hands of Aamer Sohail in the slips. Sri Lanka was now 116 for 4. It was a good break through for Pakistan, which needed a few more wickets to come back in to the game. Arjuna Ranatunga came to join Jaywardene who was facing the Pakistan bowling with full confidence. At the end of 45th over, Sri Lanka was 128 for 4 with Jayawardene (26) and Ranatunga (3) at the crease.

Waqar came to bowl in the 50th over of the inning when Sri Lanka was 134 for 4. Having caused early damage to Sri Lanka's inning he returned with a bang but faced disappointment when Wasti fielding in the slips, let a snick from Jayawardene pass through his hands for a 4. Pakistan lost a golden opportunity to put further pressure on Sri Lanka. Pakistan having no reserve in its bowling arsenal, the trio of Waqar, Razzaq and Saqlain had to take the full burden of keeping Sri Lanka's strong batting in check or to prompt the batsmen to take risks. The Sri Lankans were playing under a definite plan following the strategy of a steady advancement towards the target. At tea, Sri Lanka was 143 for 4 with Jayawardene and Ranatunga playing at 35 and 7 respectively.

THRILLING BATTLE BETWEEN BAT AND THE BALL: Sri Lanka resumed at 143/4 needing 77 to win. Having toiled hard since morning, Saqlain Mushtaq struck a big blow to Sri Lanka when Mahela Jayawardene gave a scoop to Yousuf Youhana who made no mistake to hold the catch. It being a difficult decision for umpire Zaidi who after consulting leg umpire Dave Orchard raised his finger. The atmosphere at the stadium remained riddled with anxiety till the final verdict was announced. Sri Lanka was now 144 for 5, with Jayawardene having contributed extremely useful 35. He held his end with absolute confidence for over two hours.

Soon after, Arjuna Ranatunga injured his left thumb and retired hurt. Chaminda Vaas came in to join Kaluwitharana, having taken the crease, after the fall of last wicket Sri Lanka was 146 for 5, with 35 overs game available to them to achieve the target. In the 57th over, Sri Lanka suffered another blow when Chaminda Vaas was run out on a Saqlain Mushtaq throw. Sri Lanka was now 152 for 6. Zoysa came in and had to face Waqar in full cry. Pakistan was putting in a commendable effort for a fight back. The test match having taken tremendous excitement among the spectators, was a very exciting battle between bat and ball. While the Sri Lankan batsmen were concentrating fully on holding the crease and taking safe runs only, the Pakistan bowlers were lashing at them with full vigor. It was an excellent exhibition of absorbing cricket.

As the battle went on, the runs were adding up at a steady pace. In the 68th over Waqar Younis floored Kaluwitharana on a ball from Abdur Razzaq missing a golden opportunity of putting Sri Lanka under further pressure. They were now 174 for 6. The opportunity recurred but was not missed this time. Zoysa was caught by Wasti of Abdur Razzaq in the slips for 13.

Wickramasinghe took the crease and was clean bowled by Abdur Razzaq first ball. Sri Lanka was now 177 for 8. Arjuna Ranatunga returned to bat. The excitement was mounting with every ball, the heart beats rising like the last stages of a one day international. In the height of excitement Ranatunga survived a close run out chance. After 71 overs Sri Lanka was 180 for 8 needing 40 runs to win.

Amidst an atmosphere of tension and excitement the batsmen at the crease, Ranatunga and Kaluwitharana continued advancing towards the target. In the 78th over Sri Lanka reached 200 of the innings, needing only 20 runs to win. Having taken the 2nd new ball, Waqar Younis was driven for a four by Ranatunga, taking Sri Lanka to 210 for 8. In his next over Waqar was again hit for two fours providing Sri Lanka its well-deserved victory by 2 wickets. Kaluwitharana (36) and Ranatunga (29) remained not out. Abdur Razzaq was the most successful bowler with 4 wickets for 56 runs.